Depression and HIV
People living with HIV deal with their condition and also with the stigma still associated with it. While other medical disorders garner understanding and sympathy, HIV/AIDS is viewed with suspicion, distrust, and even a sense that those living with it somehow “deserved it.” About 30 to 40 percent of men with HIV and 40 to 60 percent of women with HIV experience significant depression.
Recognizing Depression in HIV/AIDS
The symptoms of AIDS and the side effects of the drugs used to treat AIDS may cause depressive symptoms. One of these drugs is Sustiva. In advanced symptomatic HIV disease, a number of opportunistic infections, as well as HIV itself, can produce symptoms of depression. Also, HIV-positive men can have low testosterone levels, which may cause feelings of depression. If the symptoms of depression last more than two weeks, and especially if they begin after starting a new medication, let your physician know.
Fact
AIDS — Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome — was first reported in the United States in 1981. Since that time is has become a worldwide epidemic. It is a virus and is spread through contaminated blood, unprotected sex with someone who is infected, or using needles or syringes that have been used by infected persons. Also, an infected mother may pass the virus to her unborn child.
Coordinating Treatment
Treating your depression will have positive effects on your daily functioning as you cope with your condition. If you are seeing a psychiatrist for your depression, be sure he knows all the medications you are taking. Your psychiatrist and your HIV physician should work as a team to help you manage your health care.
