Strategies to Improve Social-Interaction and Mental-Health among Rural HIV/AIDS Populations
Abstract
Many rural HIV/AID populations suffer from isolation and mental health issues due to stigma, rejection, and decreased social interaction. Social interaction and a sense of accountability promote environments of medication compliance and an overall improved quality of life for all individuals. This presentation will provide participants with new social interaction strategies, resources and an awareness of common HIV/AID related mental health disorders.
Proposal Summary
Southern states including rural Georgia make up the face of new HIV diagnosis of all stages. According to the Southern HIV/AIDs Strategy Initiative, this region accounted for nearly 50 percent of the nation’s new HIV diagnosis in 2011. While there are several federal and state programs geared towards prevention, awareness and medication compliance, minimal research has been conducted regarding the impact of HIV/AIDs on social interaction, mental well-being and successful strategies to improve overall quality of life in rural populations. Our society thrives on the ability to instantly connect with other via the internet, telephone, and social media in general. However, without information and resources many individuals in this population may feel “cut off” from the rest of society. Primary Goals and Objectives: The primary goal of this presentation is the improvement of social interaction and mental well -being among HIV/AID populations in rural Georgia, by disseminating reliable and practical information regarding: mental health diagnoses that commonly occur within the HIV/AID population, reputable online dating sites, social media networks and low/no cost federal and state cultural awareness programming information. Objectives include: 1. Increase knowledge of common mental health diagnoses associated with rural HIV/AID populations 2. Increase knowledge of reputable social networks for HIV/AID populations 3. Increase knowledge of culturally centered HIV/AID resources Research includes an analysis of national and international empirical studies including work conducted rural communities in China, Kenya and the United States. Research also includes qualitative data from an 18 month case study (observation and phone interviews) of a 35 year old HIV positive, African American female, who lives in rural Georgia.
Relevance And Significance
This presentation relates to the Prevention and Intervention track, specifically the HIV and mental health intervention subtitle. This presentation provides information specifically regarding mental health diagnoses that commonly occur within the HIV/AID population. This presentation provides information regarding resources to address social interaction deficiencies that contribute to decreased quality of life within the rural HIV/AID population.
Session Format
Presentation Session
Keywords
Mental health, Wellness, Social media, HIV/AIDS, Rural Communities, Psychology, Counseling, Social Interaction, HIV/AID Intervention, HIV/AID resources, Social network, Dating, HIV-positive, Research
Location
Room 217
Publication Type and Release Option
Presentation (Open Access)
Recommended Citation
Lowman, Dr. Carmelia, "Strategies to Improve Social-Interaction and Mental-Health among Rural HIV/AIDS Populations" (2014). 9th Annual Rural HIV Research and Training Conference (2014-2019). 9.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/ruralhiv/2014/2014/9
Strategies to Improve Social-Interaction and Mental-Health among Rural HIV/AIDS Populations
Room 217
Many rural HIV/AID populations suffer from isolation and mental health issues due to stigma, rejection, and decreased social interaction. Social interaction and a sense of accountability promote environments of medication compliance and an overall improved quality of life for all individuals. This presentation will provide participants with new social interaction strategies, resources and an awareness of common HIV/AID related mental health disorders.