HIV/AIDS and Mental Health
Overview
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and can be transmitted during sexual intercourse; by sharing syringes; or perinatally during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
HIV weakens the immune system by destroying CD4 positive (CD4+) T cells, a type of white blood cell that is important for fighting off infections. The loss of these cells means that people living with HIV are more vulnerable to other infections and diseases.
People living with HIV may be diagnosed with AIDS when they have one or more opportunistic infections (infections that occur because HIV weakens the immune system), such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, and have a very low number of CD4+ T cells (less than 200 cells per cubic millimeter of blood). For more information on HIV/AIDS, please visit the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) HIV/AIDS webpage.
People living with HIV/AIDS are at a higher risk for mental disorders.
The stress associated with living with a serious illness or condition, such as HIV, can affect a person’s mental health. It is important for people living with HIV to know that they have a higher chance of developing mood, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. For example, depression is one of the most common mental health conditions faced by people living with HIV. It is important to remember that mental disorders are treatable. People who have a mental disorder can recover completely.
Situations that can contribute to mental health problems for people living with HIV include:
- Having trouble getting mental health services
- Experiencing a loss of social support, resulting in isolation
- Experiencing a loss of employment or worries about being able to perform at work
- Having to tell others about an HIV diagnosis
- Managing HIV medicines and medical treatment
- Dealing with loss, including the loss of relationships or the death of loved ones
- Facing stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS
HIV and related infections can also affect the brain and the rest of the nervous system. This may change how a person thinks and behaves. Also, some medications used to treat HIV may have side effects that affect a person's mental health.
Understanding how living with HIV can affect mental health and knowing what resources are available can make it easier for people to manage their overall health and well-being.