HIV is a disease that has a major effect on a person's physical as well as mental health. People who are HIV positive often suffer from severe psychological diseases such as anxiety, depression. On the other hand, the societal stigma surrounding HIV remains a heavy emotional weight that many individuals struggle to overcome.
The Connection Between HIV Treatment and Mental Well-being
HIV and mental health are very closely connected to each other. These both aspects have very closely knitted complex dynamics. A person that is suffering from HIV may suffer from intense emotional reaction from within which includes shock, fear, anxiety. These emotions are usually derived by the fear of facing social stigma. The psychological burden is not only about managing the disease but also about dealing with the societal perceptions and misconceptions that are attached to this disease. This can deeply affect the mental well being of that person.
Psychological Issues Individuals with HIV face
Anxiety
Anxiety is the most common issue faced by HIV patients. They developed the anxiety of transferring the virus to other people. And this anxiety is noticed when the patients suffer from constant panic attacks, trouble in sleep and consistent discomfort.
Depression
Depression is another common mental health issue faced by people with HIV. This issue is caused by the societal fear of being left alone , which leads to the feeling of being hopeless, resultantly it becomes difficult to treat such patients.
Stigma and Discrimination
The stigma surrounding HIV leads to effects on mental health of a HIV patient. HIV patients face discrimination from family, friends, and society aftering being diagnosed. This makes the patient feel alone.
How to deal with the Mental Problems Faced by patients with HIV
Mental health is very critical to address in order to treat HIV patients. Here are a few ways mental health care can be integrated into HIV treatment:
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Screening for Mental Health Issues:
HIV patients should regularly be screened for symptoms of anxiety, depression in order to detect it at early stages.
Counseling and Therapy:
Patients with HIV should be be given regular therapy sessions so that they can manage stress, anxiety, depression more effectively.
Support Groups:
Support groups are must for HIV patients as it can help them in reducing feeling of isolation in the society.
Conclusion
Mental health is extremely important component to treat HIV patients. By integrating mental health along with physical care, patients can deal with this illness more effectively.