Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms and Associated Factors among HIV-Positive Youth Attending ART Follow-Up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Prevalence of depression and associated factors among HIV/AIDS patients attending antiretroviral therapy clinic at Adama Hospital Medical College, Adama, Central Ethiopia

Depression is the most frequently detected and preventable mental illness among people with human immunodeficiency syndrome, with rates two to four times higher than in the general population. Currently, depression is estimated to affect 350 million people worldwide. To assess the prevalence of depression and associated factors among HIV/AIDS patients attending antiretroviral therapy clinic at Adama Hospital Medical College, Adama, Central Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 01 to September 30, 2021, at Adama Hospital Medical College, Adama, Ethiopia. A total of 420 individuals were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. After informed consent was obtained from each study participant, data were collected through face-to-face interviews, observations, and document reviews. Subsequently, the data were entered into EPI-Info Version 7 and analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 21. Variables with p-values less than 0.25 in the univariable logistic regression analysis were subsequently included in the multivariable logistic regression analysis to account for potential confounding factors. The association was measured using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), and variables with p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The prevalence of depression was 52.4% (95% CI 47.6-57.1). Factors significantly associated with depression among HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy included employment status [AOR = 0.22(95% CI 0.13-0.36)], the patient's most CD4 count [AOR = 6.99 (95% CI 2.81-17.38)], duration of months on antiretroviral therapy [AOR = 5.05 (95% CI 2.38-10.74)] and presence of chronic non-communicable diseases [AOR = 7.90 (95% CI 4.21-14.85)]. The highest proportion of HIV-positive patients taking antiretroviral drugs exhibited depression. Employment was identified as a preventive factor, whereas having a low CD4 count, recently initiating antiretroviral therapy, and having chronic non-communicable diseases were associated with increased odds of depression among HIV-positive patients on antiretroviral therapy. There need to strengthen mental health screening and treat depression among HIV-positive patients, particularly by targeting identified factors.

Depressive Symptoms among People Living with HIV Attending ART Centers of Lumbini Province, Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Depression is a common mental disorder and is a leading cause of disability globally. Depressive symptoms among people living with HIV can be a significant barrier to ART initiation and thus lead to poor ART adherence. Global studies have found the prevalence of depressive symptoms among people living with HIV ranges from 12 to 63%. The real scenario of Nepal still needs to be explored. Thus, this study aimed to identify the prevalence and predictors of depression in individuals with HIV.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was carried out from August to December 2020 among 406 people living with HIV attending ART centers in Lumbini province. Participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique and surveyed with a structured questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic variables, HIV AIDS-related variables, and 21 items Beck Depression Inventory tool. The odds ratio was used as the ultimate measure of association, with a 95% confidence interval computed to establish statistical significance. A multivariate regression analysis was carried out to identify the final predictors of depressive symptoms.

Results

The study found that 26.8% of the respondents had depressive symptoms. Those who were literate (AOR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.10-0.61), in the poorest wealth quintile (AOR = 7.28, 95% CI: 2.22-23.87), initiated ART within 12 months (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.03-3.42), had CD4 cell counts below 200 (AOR = 2.50, 95% CI: 1.54-4.06), and had a time difference of 3 months or less between HIV diagnosis and ART initiation (AOR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.29-0.86) were independently associated with depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Routine screening for depressive symptoms should be integrated into national HIV prevention and control programs for people living with HIV. An enabling environment should be created to facilitate the rapid enrollment of individuals newly diagnosed with HIV in ART services, thereby reducing the time gap between HIV diagnosis and ART initiation.

HIV-related stress predicts depression over five years among people living with HIV

Introduction

Extant literature has demonstrated significant associations between HIV-related stress, social support, and depression among PLWH. However, little research has been conducted on the changes in such associations over time. Our study aims to explore the longitudinal relationship between HIV-related stress, social support, and depression among PLWH over five years.

Methods

320 PLWH were recruited from Changsha Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Hunan Province, China. They were assessed for depressive symptoms, HIV-related stress, and social support within 1 month of HIV diagnosis, 1 year after diagnosis, and five years after diagnosis, respectively. Relationships between these variables were examined using a fixed effect model.

Result

The prevalence of depressive symptoms within the first month, first year, and fifth years of HIV diagnosis was 35, 12.2, and 14.7%, respectively. Emotional stress (β: 0.730, 95% CI: 0.648, 0.811), social stress (β: 0.066, 95% CI: 0.010, 0.123), instrumental stress (β: 0.133, 95% CI:0.046, 0.221) positively predicted depression, while social support utilization (β: -0.176, 95% CI: -0.303, -0.049) negatively predicted depression.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that HIV-related stress and social support predict depressive symptoms over time among PLWH and that reducing HIV-related stress and improving social support in the early stages of diagnosis is extremely important in preventing depressive symptoms among PLWH.

Depressive symptoms and their sociodemographic determinants among people living with HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

Background: HIV is a chronic disease with a profound social impact due to its strong ties with sexual and societal stigmatized behavior, such as illegal drug use and sexual promiscuity. Depression is one of the major disabling factors in chronic illnesses. Depression and anxiety disorders are more common among people living with HIV than the non-infected individuals. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and its associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh. Methods: This cross-sectional study, which took place in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July to December 2020, included 338 HIV-positive people. The method used was a simple random sampling technique. The Beck Depression Inventory assessed depression in HIV-positive people (BDI). Results: More than 62 percent of the 338 people surveyed had severe depression, 30.5 percent had moderate depression, 5.6 percent had mild depression, and 1.8 percent had no depression. Age, being a male, being married, and having a low monthly income were all significant predictors of depression. Conclusions: This study found that depressive symptoms are highly prevalent among HIV-positive patients in Bangladesh. The authors recommend that health care providers address depressive disorders for people with HIV/ AIDS comprehensively.

Depressive symptoms and their sociodemographic determinants among people living with HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

Background: HIV is a chronic disease with a profound social impact due to its strong ties with sexual and societal stigmatized behavior, such as illegal drug use and sexual promiscuity. Depression is one of the major disabling factors in chronic illnesses. Depression and anxiety disorders are more common among people living with HIV than the non-infected individuals. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression and its associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh. Methods: This cross-sectional study, which took place in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from July to December 2020, included 338 HIV-positive people. The method used was a simple random sampling technique. The Beck Depression Inventory assessed depression in HIV-positive people (BDI). Results: More than 62 percent of the 338 people surveyed had severe depression, 30.5 percent had moderate depression, 5.6 percent had mild depression, and 1.8 percent had no depression. Age, being a male, being married, and having a low monthly income were all significant predictors of depression. Conclusions: This study found that depressive symptoms are highly prevalent among HIV-positive patients in Bangladesh. The authors recommend that health care providers address depressive disorders for people with HIV/ AIDS comprehensively.

Prevalence and factors associated with psychological distress among pregnant and non-pregnant youth living with HIV in rural Uganda: a comparative study

Youth living with HIV (YLHIV) are prone to psychological distress, which may have detrimental effects on health outcomes. Pregnant youth have poor access to HIV care increasing the risk of vertical transmission of HIV to their infants. Both HIV and pregnancy are independently associated with poor mental health among adolescents. The factors that predispose women to poor mental health may also increase their risk of contracting HIV. Despite their desire to have children YLHIV are at a high risk of psychological distress. However, factors associated with psychological distress among YLHIV in rural Uganda are not well explored. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of, and factors associated with psychological distress among pregnant and non-pregnant YLHIV in south western Uganda. We enrolled 224 YLHIV aged 15-24 years both pregnant and nonpregnant (ratio 1:1) between December 2018 and March 2019. We obtained information on psychological distress and factors hypothesized to affect mental health outcomes among people living with HIV including internalized HIV stigma, intimate partner violence, self-esteem and social support. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to estimate factors independently associated with psychological distress. The prevalence of psychological distress was 48.2%% among pregnant YLHIV and 32.14% among non-pregnant YLHIV. Factors significantly associated with psychological distress among pregnant YLHIV were HIV stigma (AOR=4.61; 95% CI 1.63-13.84; P=0.004), physical abuse (AOR=4.97; 95% CI 1.41- 17.56; P= 0.013), and separation from partner (AOR =0.03; 95% CI 0.001-0.580; P=0.020).

The prevalence of depression, anxiety and associated factors among adults with living human immunodeficiency virus in University Malaya Medical Centre

BACKGROUND

This study estimates prevalence of depression and anxiety among adults living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) and determines its associated factors.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2020 and January 2021, in the Infectious Disease clinic and ward. One hundred ninety-one patients were recruited via convenience sampling. Patients' sociodemographic were obtained, followed by Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale -21 (DASS-21), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and M.I.N.I. international neuropsychiatric interview (M.I.N.I.) The cut off DASS-21 point for depression is ≥5, for anxiety, ≥ 4. Mann-Whitney U and Chi square test were used to analyse the association between variables, and logistic regression to find predictability.

RESULTS

Of the 191 participants, 89.5% outpatient, mean age 40 years (SD 0.742), 91.1% male, 65.4% single, 71.2% working, 46.1% Malaysian Chinese, 59.8% non- heterosexual, mean 6 years of being HIV positive; mean CD4 count 449/μL; mean viral load 116,690 (median = 20). 85.9% were taking antiretroviral therapy. The prevalence of depression was 35.1% (n = 67); anxiety was 42.9% (n = 82). Regression analysis revealed anxiety and stress increased odds of depression by 3.8 times (p = .001) and 12 times (p < .001) respectively. Those 40 years old and younger had 2.3 times odds of anxiety (p = .048). Increased social support from friends increased odds of anxiety by 1.7 times (p = .018). Depression and stress increased odds of anxiety by 4.4 times (p = .001) and 3.7 times (p = .008) respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Depression and anxiety among people with HIV is often under-recognised. Early identification and treatment of the mental illness is warranted. Screening with DASS-21 is useful to detect depression in patients with HIV.

Triple Burden of Neurocognitive Impairment and Co-occurring Depression and Anxiety Among People Living With HIV in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: A Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

Neurocognitive impairment is associated with psychological morbidities, such as depression and anxiety, among people living with HIV. The presence of these comorbidities affects viral load suppression, treatment adherence, quality of life, treatment outcomes, and functionality. Despite this fact, there is a dearth of studies that examined the triple burden of neurocognitive impairment and co-occurring depression and anxiety among antiretroviral therapy attendees in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment and co-occurring depression and anxiety at the same time among people living with HIV/AIDS.

METHOD

We conducted an institution-based multicenter cross-sectional study in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia. A total of 410 study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Neurocognitive impairment was assessed using the International HIV Dementia Scale. Co-occurring depression and anxiety were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to collect data on sociodemographic and clinical-related characteristics. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Two-thirds (66.8%) of the people living with HIV had neurocognitive impairment. The prevalence of co-occurring depression and anxiety was found in 39.8%. Women with HIV, people with comorbid chronic medical illness, and those under a second-line treatment regimen were factors associated with neurocognitive impairment. Furthermore, pill burden, second-line treatment regimen, HIV clinical stages, social support, HIV-perceived stigma, and neurocognitive impairment were associated factors with co-occurring depression and anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a high prevalence of neurocognitive impairment and co-occurring depression and anxiety among people living with HIV/AIDs. Further research is needed to assess the clinical course of neurocognitive impairment and co-occurring depression and anxiety.

Determinants of Common Mental Disorders Among People Living with HIV/AIDS Attending ART Service in Southern Ethiopia

Background

Worldwide, the rates of psychological problems have been shown to have a dramatic increase, particularly among people living with chronic diseases. Besides the known clinical factors, it is important to address an individual’s level of resilience as an included factor for mental health outcome for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Aim

The aim of the study was to assess determinants of common mental disorders among people living with human immune virus/acquired immune deficiency virus (HIV/AIDS).

Setting

ART clinic of Gedeo zone public hospital, South, Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based unmatched case control study was conducted. A total of 360 adults (180 cases and 180 controls) aged 18 and above who attended the anti-retro viral therapy (ART) service participated. The Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20) screening tool was used to determine cases and controls based on the status of common mental disorders. The treatment register at each HIV treatment center was used to systematically select study participants for the interview. The cases were common mental disorder (CMD) positively screened adults who scored seven and above, while the controls were adults who scored below seven. Then the cases and controls who took part in the study were selected using a simple random sampling method with a proportional allocation method for each hospital. Multivariable logistic regression was used. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statically significant.

Results

Lower resilience level was found to be significant predictors of common mental disorder among HIV patients [AOR = 3.16 95% CI; 1.83, 5.46]. The other predictors were being female (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.01 95% CI; 1.21, 3.34); single [AOR = 8.10 95% CI; 3.50, 18.76]; divorced and widowed [AOR = 3.31 95% CI; 1.76, 6.22]; more than ten years of illness duration [AOR = 2.30 95% CI; 1.39, 3.80]; and having perceived stigma [AOR = 5.39 95% CI; 2.65, 10.82].

Conclusion

HIV-positive adults with lower resilience levels and experiencing perceived stigma exhibited significantly higher risk of mental disorders. Hence, improving personal resilience and working to mitigate perceived stigma play a great role in decreasing the risk of common mental disorders.

Depressive symptoms and associated factors among HIV positive patients attending public health facilities of Dessie town: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Depressive symptoms are the most common psychiatric complication of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. They are associated with poor drug adherence, treatment failure, and increase the risk for suicide. There was limited evidence of depressive symptoms among HIV-positive patients in the study area. So, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms and associated factors among HIV-positive patients attending public health facilities of Dessie town, North-central Ethiopia, 2019.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 380 HIV-positive patients attending ART clinics in Dessie town, North-central Ethiopia, 2019. Samples were selected using systematic random sampling and the data were collected by using structured, pretested, and interviewer-administered questionnaires. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) at a cut-off point of 5 was used to assess depressive symptoms. The data were entered by Epi data version 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS version 25. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with depressive symptoms. The Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) along with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was estimated to measure the association. The level of significance was declared at a p-value of less than 0.05.

RESULT

The prevalence of depressive symptoms among HIV positive patients was 15.5% (95% CI: (12.4%, 19.2%)). Age 40-49 years compared to 30-39 years (AOR = 2.96, 95% CI: (1.01, 8.68)), age ≥50 years compared to 30-39 years (AOR = 3.81, 95% CI: (1.05, 13.8)), having perceived stigma (AOR = 10.2, 95%CI: (4.26, 24.4)) taking medication other than Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI: (1.25, 5.33)) and history of opportunistic infections (AOR = 5.17, 95% CI: (1.31, 20.4)) were factors associated with depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of depressive symptoms was low compared to previous studies. Age, perceived stigma, taking medication other than ART, and history of opportunistic infections were factors associated with depressive symptoms. Health education and counseling programs should be strengthened and target older patients, patients who took medications other than ART, patients who experienced perceived stigma and patients with a history of history opportunistic infections.

Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms and Its Associated Factors among People Living with HIV Attending Public Hospitals of Nekemte Town, Western Ethiopia, 2021

Background

Depressive symptoms are the most common mental illness among people living with HIV/AIDS. Depressive symptoms impact negatively on the course of HIV infection and can lead to suicide and increased risk of mortality when it is a severe form. Although depressive symptoms are common among HIV/AIDS patients, only a few studies have been conducted in Ethiopia and no study, particularly at Nekemte town public hospitals. Therefore, this study was aimed at assessing the prevalence and risk factors for depressive symptoms among people living with HIV/AIDS attending Nekemte town public hospitals, Western Ethiopia. Methods. An institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted on 425 HIV/AIDS patients at Nekemte town public hospitals, from March 30 to May 30, 2019. Data were collected through interviews and patient document reviews. The nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to collect information concerning depressive symptoms and was defined by a PHQ-9 score ≥ 5. HIV stigma and discrimination scales were used to measure stigma. Social support was described by a sum score of the Oslo3 social support scale (OSS-3). The collected data was entered into EpiData Windows version 4.1 and then exported to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Windows version 24.0 for analysis. All variables found to be significant at the bivariable level (p value < 0.25) were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model. p values of <0.05 and 95% confidence level were used to determine statistical significance.

Results

Out of the total of 384 study participants who participated in the study, 165 (42.96%) had depressive symptoms. Self-reported sleeping problems (AOR = 7.04, 95% CI: 3.23, 15.33), CD4 level of <200 (AOR = 5.45, 95% CI: 2.06, 14.42), poor social support (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI: 1.17, 6.67), and perceived stigma (AOR = 9.11, 95% CI: 1.17, 17.33) were significantly associated with depressive symptoms among HIV/AIDS patients at Nekemte town public hospitals.

Conclusion

The level of depressive symptoms among HIV/AIDS patients in this study was high. Self-reported sleeping problems, CD4 level, social support, and perceived stigma were found to be significantly associated with depressive symptoms among HIV patients. Health care professionals should have to strengthen the linkage of mental health with antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic to early detect and treat depressive symptoms.

Prevalence and factors associated with common mental disorders in young people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Common mental disorders (CMDs) particularly depression and anxiety, are highly comorbid with HIV also in young people living with HIV (YLWH). In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where most YLWH reside, there are limited summary data on CMDs among these youths, yet there are previous systematic reviews summarizing data on CMDs among adults living with HIV. We conducted a systematic literature review on the prevalence and correlates of CMDs among YLWH, aged 10 to 24 years, from SSA.

METHODS

We searched African Index Medicus, African Journals Online and five other electronic databases (from database inception up to 31 December 2020) for relevant studies published in English. The key search terms applied were as follows: "Depression OR Anxiety", "Young people", "HIV infections" and "sub-Saharan Africa".

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Out of 3989 articles, 31 studies were included in the review. The prevalence of CMDs in YLWH widely varied ranging between 16.0% and 40.8% for major depression, 4.4% and 52.6% for depressive symptoms and 2.2% and 25.0% for anxiety symptoms. Anxiety disorder was estimated at 45.6%. Four of the five included studies with a comparison group of HIV-negative young people reported significantly higher prevalence estimates of depressive disorders among YLWH. Several sociodemographic, psychosocial and HIV-related correlates of CMDs were reported but most lacked consensus across studies. Nevertheless, female sex, older age, fewer schooling years, HIV-positive status, bullying, sexual abuse, HIV-related stigma, social support and poor antiretroviral therapy adherence were frequently reported (in ≥2 studies) as significant correlates of depressive symptoms among YLWH. Higher social support was the only frequent significant correlate of anxiety symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The burden of CMDs among YLWH from SSA is substantial and appears to be significantly higher when compared with HIV-negative peers, particularly for depressive disorders. However, more comparative research is needed. Importantly, screening for CMDs at the youth HIV-clinics should be prioritized especially for YLWH at high risk of CMDs, to facilitate early management or referral for treatment. Furthermore, youth-friendly psychological interventions addressing CMDs in YLWH should urgently be piloted in SSA, incorporating contextual components that may directly or indirectly reduce symptoms of CMDs among YLWH, such as social support.

The Association between HIV-Stigma and Depressive Symptoms among People Living with HIV/AIDS: A Systematic Review of Studies Conducted in South Africa

BACKGROUND

People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) are at increased risk of stigma and mental illness, and this appears to be a particular issue in South Africa, which is home to 19% of the world's HIV-positive population. This paper aims to systematically review the literature investigating the relationship between HIV-stigma and depressive symptoms among PLWHA in South Africa.

METHODS

A keyword search of four bibliographic databases (CINAHL, Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) and two grey literature websites was conducted. The quality of eligible studies was assessed using established criteria.

RESULTS

Fourteen quantitative studies were included in the review. PLWHA in South Africa experience high levels of HIV-stigma and depressive symptoms. All forms of stigma were found to be associated with depressive symptoms amongst PLWHA. Prospective findings were mixed, with one study finding that stigma did not predict depressive symptoms over 36 months, and another that depressive symptoms predicted stigma 12 months later, suggesting a potentially bidirectional relationship. Females and young adults may be particularly vulnerable to HIV-stigma and its negative psychological effects. Some support was found for the moderating role of social support in the relationship between stigma and depressive symptoms across different sub-populations.

LIMITATIONS

Few studies conducted prospective analyses or tested mediation/moderation.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite limitations, this study highlights the importance of understanding the mechanisms underlying HIV-stigma across different sub-populations in South Africa. This may lead to more effective and context-specific interventions to combat adverse mental health outcomes.

The prevalence of depression among adolescent with HIV/AIDS: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Depression is particularly common among adolescents with HIV/AIDS and has been associated with disruption of the important developmental process, subsequently leading to a wide range of negative mental, physical and psychosocial consequences, as well as poor quality of life in those population groups. Nevertheless, to the best of our knowledge, there are no prior systematic reviews and meta-analytic studies that determined the prevalence of depression among adolescents with HIV/AIDS.

METHOD

We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science for relevant literature until May 2020. A random-effect meta-analysis was used to pool prevalence rates from individual studies. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to identify the source of heterogeneities and to compare the prevalence estimates across the groups. The Joanna Briggs Institute's quality assessment checklist was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Cochran's Q and the I² tests were used to assess heterogeneity between the studies.

RESULTS

A total of ten studies were included for the final analysis, with 2642 adolescents living with HIV/AIDS. Our final meta-analysis showed that more than a quarter of adolescents with HIV had depression [26.07% (95% CI 18.92-34.78)]. The prevalence was highest amongst female adolescents (32.15%) than males (25.07%) as well as amongst the older adolescents aged 15-19 years (37.09%) than younger adolescents aged 10-14 years (29.82%).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that a significant proportion of adolescents with HIV had depression, indicating the imperativeness of intervention strategies to alleviate the suffering and possibly reduce the probable negative ramifications.

HIV Infection and Related Mental Disorders

Over the more than thirty-year period of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) epidemic, many data have been accumulated indicating that HIV infection predisposes one to the development of mental pathologies. It has been proven that cognitive disorders in HIV-positive individuals are the result of the direct exposure of the virus to central nervous system (CNS) cells. The use of antiretroviral therapy has significantly reduced the number of cases of mental disorders among people infected with HIV. However, the incidence of moderate to mild cognitive impairment at all stages of HIV infection is still quite high. This review describes the most common forms of mental pathology that occur in people living with HIV and presents the current concepts on the possible pathogenetic mechanisms of the influence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) and its viral proteins on the cells of the CNS and the CNS’s functions. This review also provides the current state of knowledge on the impact of the antiretroviral therapy on the development of mental pathologies in people living with HIV, as well as current knowledge on the interactions between antiretroviral and psychotropic drugs that occur under their simultaneous administration.

Psychological Distress and Its Correlates among Newly Diagnosed People Living with HIV in Northwest Ethiopia: Ordinal Logistic Regression Analyses

Background

Although there is a high burden of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), studies on mental health issues among people living with HIV are scarce. The study addressed the transition to "test and treat" guidelines for HIV, which makes it unique regarding its evaluation of psychological distress amongst newly initiated people living with HIV in the test and treat era.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 689 people newly diagnosed with HIV. Symptoms of psychological distress were measured using the Kessler-10 psychological distress assessment scale. Factors associated with psychological distress were captured using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Ordinal logistic regression analyses were employed to identify predictors of psychological distress.

Results

The magnitude of psychological distress was 58.63% (95% CI = 55.2%-62.3%). The severity of the psychological distress of which, 17.42% had severe distress. Psychological distress was observed more among female patients (β = 0.47, AOR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.12, 2.27), patients presented with opportunistic infections (β = 0.50, AOR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.03, 2.66) and being non-working functional status (β = 0.99, AOR = 2.70, 95% CI = 1.64, 4.45). Moreover, patients who were malnourished (β = 0.46, AOR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.09, 2.26), having good level of knowledge on HIV prevention (β = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.55, 0.39, 0.78), presented with sexually transmitted infection (β = 0.48, AOR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.01, 2.58), history of alcohol use (β = 0.44, AOR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.09, 2.21), perceived stigma (β = 0.08, AOR = 1.09 95% CI = 1.04, 1.15) and treated in health centers (β = 0.55, AOR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.25, 2.41) had higher odds of psychological distress.

Conclusion

The large majority of newly diagnosed HIV patients suffered from psychological distress. An increased vulnerability was observed among females, those with opportunistic and sexually transmitted infections, those having poor functional status and malnourished. Furthermore, HIV patients treated in health centers, those who had history of alcohol use and patients with high level of HIV related stigma are more negatively affected by the HIV diagnosis. Hence, all intervention strategies should target all the identified predictors.

Prevalence, risk and protective indicators of common mental disorders among young people living with HIV compared to their uninfected peers from the Kenyan coast: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

In sub-Saharan Africa, common mental disorders (CMDs) like depression and anxiety are under-investigated amongst young people living with HIV (YLWH). To address the gap, in Kenya we: a) determined the prevalence of CMDs among YLWH compared to their uninfected peers; b) investigated HIV status as an independent predictor of CMDs in young people; c) investigated CMDs risk and protective indicators with more focus on YLWH.

METHODS

Between November 2018 and September 2019, 819 young people aged 18-24 years (407 HIV-infected) were recruited from two Counties on the Kenyan coast. Locally adapted pre-existing mental health measures, Patient Health Questionnaire (9-item) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (7-item), were administered among other questionnaires via audio computer-assisted self-interview. Logistic regression was used to determine the correlates of CMDs.

RESULTS

Prevalence of CMDs was significantly elevated among YLWH compared to their uninfected peers i.e. 29% vs. 12%; p < 0.001 for depressive symptoms, 19% vs. 8%; p < 0.001 for anxiety symptoms, and 16% vs. 5%; p < 0.001 for comorbid depressive and anxiety symptoms. HIV status independently predicted depressive symptoms and its co-occurrence with anxiety symptoms. Among YLWH, negative life events, higher perceived HIV-related stigma and low adherence to antiretroviral therapy were the risk indicators for elevated CMDs. Among HIV-uninfected youths, death of both parents was a risk indicator for elevated depressive symptoms. Protective indicators against CMDs among youths with and without HIV included higher social support and health-related quality of life.

CONCLUSION

At the Kenyan coast, YLWH have significantly higher burden of CMDs compared to their uninfected peers. Being HIV-positive as a youth in this setting is predictive of more depressive symptoms and its comorbidity with anxiety symptoms. YLWH at high risk of CMDs in coastal Kenya can benefit from early detection, referral and treatment if routine screening for CMDs is integrated in their care package. The mental wellbeing of bereaving HIV-unaffected youths could be improved through continued support to help them come to terms with their loss. At the community level, programmes strengthening the social capital or improving the overall quality of life of youths with or without HIV may be beneficial to their mental health.

Proportion of Depression and Its Associated Factors Among Youth HIV/AIDS Clients Attending ART Clinic in Dessie Town Government Health Facilities, Northeast Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Depression is the most prevalent among people living with HIV/AIDS than people without HIV/AIDS. Depression is associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality in people living with HIV/AIDS and adversely affects the adherence to antiretroviral therapy, quality of life, and health-related parameters.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the proportion of depression and its associated factors among youth HIV/AIDS patients attending ART clinics in Dessie town Government health facilities, Northeast Ethiopia.

METHODS

Institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed on 431 youth HIV/AIDS patients attending ART clinics at Dessie town Public health facilities. Data were collected by face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire. EPI-Data software version 3.1 was used to enter the data and analysis was done using SPSS version 23. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with depression. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value of less than 0.05 in the final model.

RESULTS

The proportion of depression among youth HIV/AIDS patients was 26.2%. The age range between 20 and 24 years (AOR = 2.019, 95% CI: 1.143-3.566), poor medication adherence (AOR = 9.007, 95% CI: 3.061-26.500), stigma (AOR = 4.14, 95% CI: 2.08-8.26), and low social support (AOR = 1.854, 95% CI: 1.034-3.324) were associated with depression.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of depression among youth HIV patients in the current study was found to be lower compared to previous studies. Age, HIV-related stigma, social support, lost job, and poor medication adherence were found to be independent predictors of depression. Therefore, scaling up the pediatric psychosocial support program to youth psychosocial support for all ART site health facilities, strengthening health education about the medication adherence and complication of HIV/AIDS are needed.

Depression and associated factors among HIV-positive youths attending antiretroviral therapy clinics in Jimma town, southwest Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Depression is recognized as a prominent health problem and a growing public health concern in HIV-positive youths. Despite this fact, in Ethiopia, there is a dearth of evidence on the prevalence of depression and its associated factors among HIV-positive youths.

METHODS

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 16 to June 01, 2020, among 331 HIV-positive youths attending antiretroviral therapy clinics in Jimma town. A systematic random sampling technique was used to enroll study participants. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was done to identify factors associated with depression. Variables with a p-value ≤0.25 on the bivariable analysis were candidates for multivariable analysis. Adjusted odds ratios with the respective 95% CI were calculated and p-value <0.05 were used to set statistically significant variables in the multivariable analysis.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 331 sampled HIV positive youth, 325 have participated in this study with a response rate of 98.2%. The prevalence of depression was 30.2% (95%CI:25.2%-35.1%). Female sex (AOR = 4.12, 95%CI:2.28-7.47), history of hospital admission (AOR = 2.45, 95%CI:1.28-4.70), discontinued education due to HIV/AIDS illness (AOR = 2.09, 95%CI:1.12-3.90), poor treatment adherence (AOR = 2.23, 95%CI:1.04-4.78), opportunistic infections (AOR = 2.16, 95%CI:1.17-3.97), high baseline viral load (AOR = 3.35, 95%CI:1.82-6.16) and ≤6 months duration of HIV diagnosis (AOR = 3.14, 95%CI: 1.47-5.72) were factors significantly associated with depression.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated a high prevalence of depression among HIV-positive youths. Factors such as female sex, treatment non-adherence, opportunistic infections, Collapse

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MESH Headings

• Adult
• Anti-HIV Agents/therapeutic use
• Cross-Sectional Studies
• Demography
• Depression/complications
• Depression/epidemiology
• Ethiopia/epidemiology
• Female
• HIV Infections/complications
• HIV Infections/drug therapy
• HIV Infections/psychology
• Humans
• Male
• Prevalence
• Young Adult

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Grants

• Jimma University

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Affiliation(s)

Derara Girma Public Health Department, College of Health Sciences, Salale University, Fiche, Ethiopia
Sahilu Assegid Epidemiology Department, Institute of Public Health, Health Sciences College, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
Yenealem Gezahegn Epidemiology Department, Institute of Public Health, Health Sciences College, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia

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Depressive symptoms and their determinants in patients who are on antiretroviral therapy in the case of a low-income country, Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The presence of depression in people living with HIV/AIDS could lead to non-adherence to antiretroviral medications. It also leads to further comorbid and opportunistic illness and then lowering the patient's quality of life. The objective of this study was therefore to determine the pooled prevalence of depression and its related factors in HIV patients.

Methods

Relevant articles in PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE were investigated. The Meta-XL version 5.3 was used to extract data and STATA-11 Meta-prop packages with the Random effect model was used to quantify depression and its related factors. Sensitivity and subgroup analysis were performed to explore sources of heterogeneity. The Cochran’s Q-statistic and the Higgs I² test were also done. Besides, the Eggers test and symmetry in the funnel plot were used to detect the presence/absence of publication bias.

Result

In this meta-analysis, we included 21 articles that assessed 10,090 participants. The average prevalence of depression among people with HIV/AIDS was 35.8% (95% CI 28.29, 43.25). The average estimated prevalence of depressive symptoms was 59.4% in the Oromia region and 29.25% in southern Ethiopia. Besides, the average prevalence of depression was 45.6% and 26.2% as measured with Beck’s depression inventory and Hospital anxiety and depression scale respectively. Moreover, the prevalence of depression was 47.7% in studies that used a sample size ≤ of 400 participants and 28.5% in studies that used a sample size of > 400 participants. The pooled adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of perceived HIV stigma was 3.75 (95% CI 2.34, 5.16) and that of poor social support was 6.22 (95% CI 2.96, 9.47). Moreover, the average odds ratio of poor medication adherence, opportunistic infection, and advanced stages of AIDS were 3.03 (95% CI 1.00, 5.05), 5.5 (95% CI 1.97, 10.03), and 5.43 (95% CI 1.60, 9.28) respectively.

Conclusion

The pooled prevalence of depression among individuals living with HIV/AIDS was high. Factors such as perceived HIV stigma, poor social support, opportunistic infection, advanced AIDS stage, and poor medication adherence were related to it. Routine screening and management of depression and its related factors should be given due consideration.

Prevalence and factors associated with depression among adult HIV patients attending ART clinics: a cross-sectional study in Western Bhutan

Depression is highly prevalent among people living with human immunodeficiency virus across the globe. Data regarding prevalence and factors associated with depression among HIV-infected individuals in Bhutan remained unknown. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was undertaken among 103 adult (≥18 years) HIV patients attending anti-retroviral therapy clinics located at four different hospitals in Western Bhutan. Depression was assessed using the translated and validated Bhutanese version of centre for epidemiologic studies depression scale-revised. The overall response rate of our participants was 73.6%. Age of our participants ranged from 23 to 79 (mean = 40.29, standard deviation ± 11.22) years. The overall prevalence of depression among our participants was 27.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 19.4-35.9). Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis showed that females (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.96, 95% CI: 1.37-11.41) and the poor perceived family support (AOR = 3.31, 95% CI: 1.20-9.10) were significantly associated with depression. Divorced, low income, drinking alcohol and CD₄ <200 cells/mm³ had no associations with depression. We recommend mental health interventions to be integrated into routine HIV care in Bhutan for proper management of depression.

Task-sharing and piloting WHO group interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT-G) for adolescent mothers living with HIV in Nairobi primary health care centers: a process paper

This paper describes a sustainable structure to deliver the World Health Organization (WHO) endorsed group Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT-G) for Postpartum Adolescent (PPA) mothers living with HIV in Nairobi. It documents the process of mobilizing, training, and engaging Community Health Workers (CHWs) and Key Informants (health facility staff) involved in the Prevention of Mother-To-Child Transmission (PMTCT) in two Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities from informal settlements of Nairobi County. Mainly reporting experiences from the training process utilizing focused group discussions and in-depth interviews involving participants, IPT-G therapists and supervisors we present process findings and acceptability of our IPT-G implementation.

Informing the measurement of wellbeing among young people living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa for policy evaluations: a mixed-methods systematic review

Young people living with HIV (YPLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are at high risk of having a poor quality of life. Addressing wellbeing explicitly within HIV/AIDS policies could assist mitigation efforts. However, guidance on wellbeing measures to evaluate policies for YPLHIV is scarce. The aims of this mixed-methods review were to identify: i) key dimensions of wellbeing and ii) wellbeing measures that align to these dimensions among YPLHIV (15-24 years) in SSA. We searched six social science and medical databases, including grey literature. We included studies that examined correlates and lived experiences of wellbeing, among YPLHIV in SSA, from January 2000 to May 2019. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts and full texts and assessed methodological quality of included articles. We analysed quantitative and qualitative data using descriptive and meta-ethnographic approaches, respectively. Thereafter, we integrated findings using a framework approach. We identified 6527 citations. Of these, 10 quantitative and 30 qualitative studies were included. Being male, higher educational status, less stigma and more social support were likely correlates of wellbeing. Themes that shaped experiences suggestive of wellbeing were: 1) acceptance and belonging- stigma, social support; 2) coping; 3) standard of living. Our final synthesis found that the following dimensions potentially characterise wellbeing: self-acceptance, belonging, autonomy; positive relations, environmental mastery, purpose in life. Wellbeing for YPLHIV is multi-dimensional and relational. Relevant measures include the Personal Wellbeing Index, Ryff's Psychological Wellbeing Scale and Mental Health Continuum Short Form. However, psychometric evaluations of these scales among YPLHIV in SSA are needed.

The Effect of Poor Social Support on Depression among HIV/AIDS Patients in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Low- and middle-income countries of which Ethiopia is one bears the high burden of depression among human immune deficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) patients. Several factors have been identified as being associated with increased depression among HIV/AIDS patients including poor social support. However, studies examining the effect of poor social support on depression among HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia have had inconsistent findings. This systematic review and meta-analysis is therefore aimed at estimating the pooled effect of poor social support on depression among HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia.

METHODS

All relevant articles published prior to July 1, 2020, were retrieved from scientific databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar systematically. The identified studies reporting the association of depression and poor social support among HIV patients in Ethiopia were included. I ² tests were used to assess the heterogeneity of the studies. Subgroup analysis was done based on tools to determine how pooled estimates of depression vary across tools. The pooled estimate of association between poor social support and depression was reported.

RESULTS

The aggregated meta-analysis revealed a higher odds of depression among patients with poor social support than those who had strong social support (OR: 2.31, 95% CI: 1.69, 2.93). The pooled prevalence of depression among HIV/AIDS patients in Ethiopia was 38.93% (95%: CI: 32.01, 45.84); (I ² = 94.44%, p ≤ 0.001). The subgroup analysis was performed based on tools, and the result showed that the highest pooled prevalence (44.42%) was among primary studies that used the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) tool.

CONCLUSIONS

Human immune deficiency virus and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) patients with poor social support were more likely to develop depression. The pooled prevalence of depression among HIV/AIDS patient was high in Ethiopia. The highest prevalence of depression was observed among studies that used HADS to screen depression. Therefore, we recommend integration of mental health and psychosocial support services into the HIV/AIDS care. Prevention of HIV/AIDS-related stigma for people with HIV/AIDS is also needed to reduce the impact of poor social support.

Depression and HIV Disease Progression: A Mini-Review

Background

Depression is the most common mental disorder and a leading cause of disability, which commonly presents unexplained psychological and physical symptoms. Depression and HIV/AIDS are commonly comorbid. This review provides an insight into the effect of depression on disease progression among people living with HIV.

Methods

A search for relevant articles was conducted using a database like MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO and CINAHL. Peer-reviewed English journals published between 2015 and 2019 were included in the review.

Results

A total of eight studies conducted in different settings were included in the review. This review has found that psychosocial, neurohormonal and virologic factors associated with depression affect HIV disease progression. Yet, the chronicity of depression, absence of the hormones that have a buffer effect on depression and lack of examination if depression is a predictor, or an outcome of disease progression, were some of the gaps that require further investigation.

Conclusion

Considerably, more research is needed to better understand the effect of mental disorder, especially depression, on HIV disease progression to AIDS and future interventions should, therefore, concentrate on the integration of mental health screening in HIV clinical setup.

Depression and its associated factors among HIV/AIDS patients attending ART clinics at Gimbi General hospital, West Ethiopia, 2018

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and factors associated with depression among people living with HIV/AIDS attending Gimbi General hospital, West Ethiopia. Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted on 404 HIV/AIDS patients, from March 01 to March 30, 2018. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with depression. Possible association and statistical significance were measured using odds ratio at 95% confidence interval and P-value less than 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 393 HIV/AIDS patients were included in this study. Out of this, 41.7% had depression. Perceived social stigma (AOR = 6.98, 95% CI 3.07, 15.86), opportunistic infection (AOR = 9.38, 95% CI 4.21, 20.89), adverse drug reaction (AOR = 3.73, 95% CI 1.58, 8.81), absence of family/social support (AOR = 9.97, 95% CI 3.57, 27.86), and presence of other chronic diseases (AOR = 6.14, 95% CI 1.66, 22.68) were significantly associated with depression. The level of depression among HIV/AIDS patient in this study was high. The clinician should early recognize and treat drug side effects, early detect and manage opportunistic infection and other chronic diseases, and give health information about the disease for the community to reduce social stigma.