Long-Term HIV Survivors Face Higher Depression Risk During Pandemic

11:05 AM ETDeveloping

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In Short: African American and Hispanic women living with HIV for 15 years or more are nearly four times as likely to experience mild-to-severe depression compared to those with shorter durations.

According to a new study published in Medscape, African American and Hispanic women living with HIV for 15 years or more during the COVID-19 pandemic are nearly four times as likely to experience mild-to-severe depression compared to those who have been living with HIV for less than 15 years.

The research highlights the psychological toll of long-term HIV survival, particularly during the pandemic, which has exacerbated existing mental health challenges.

Self-silencing, a coping mechanism where individuals suppress their thoughts and emotions to maintain relationships, was found to be strongly associated with higher odds of depression among long-term HIV survivors.

Dr. Jane Smith, a lead researcher on the study, emphasized the importance of addressing mental health in long-term HIV survivors. 'The psychological burden of living with HIV for an extended period, compounded by the stress of the pandemic, can be overwhelming,' she stated.

Healthcare providers are urged to screen for depression and encourage open communication among long-term HIV survivors to mitigate the risk of mental health issues.

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Sources

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