Niu L, Luo D, Chen X, Wang M, Zhou W, Zhang D, Xiao S. Longitudinal trajectories of emotional problems and unmet mental health needs among people newly diagnosed with HIV in China.
J Int AIDS Soc 2019;
22:e25332. [PMID:
31424617 PMCID:
PMC6699581 DOI:
10.1002/jia2.25332]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Concern over mental health morbidity affecting people living with HIV is increasing worldwide. The objective of this study was to describe the longitudinal trajectories of depression and anxiety, and mental health service utilization among people newly diagnosed with HIV.
METHODS
This was an observational cohort study that enrolled people newly diagnosed with HIV consecutively and followed them for one year in Changsha, China. Socio-demographic, clinical and psychological data were collected at the baseline and at one-year follow-up. Participants were recruited between March 1, 2013 and September 30, 2014. The final follow-up was in September 30, 2015.
RESULTS
Among 557 people newly diagnosed with HIV enrolled at the baseline, 410 (73.6%) completed the one-year follow-up survey (median (interquartile range) age at follow-up: 29 (25, 39) years; 376 men (91.7%)), and were included in the analysis. 39.3% and 30.2% of the 410 participants were screened with significant symptoms of depression and anxiety at baseline respectively. An overall drop in the prevalence of each condition was found at follow-up, however, 10.5% and 6.1% of participants were found to have persistent depression and anxiety. The results of mixed-effect models showed that bisexuality, homosexual transmission, other clinical symptoms (for example, not on antiretroviral therapy (ART)), non-disclosure, higher levels of HIV/AIDS-related stress, and lack of social support were associated with significant symptoms of depression and anxiety. One year after diagnosis, 8.3% had visited healthcare providers for emotional or psychological problems.
CONCLUSIONS
Despite the obvious need people newly diagnosed with HIV in China rarely seek professional help. Integrating depression and anxiety screening and referral into HIV care settings is warranted.
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