Coping with Aids
Aids (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a condition in which the body’s immune system breaks down and is unable to fight off infection.
Aids is caused by virus called HIV,the Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
HIV_ RELATED MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEM
Mental healthy problem can affect anybody,but people with HIV are more likely to experience a range of mental issues over the course of their lives.
EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
Receiving an HIV diagnosis can produce strong emotional reactions. Initial feelings of shock and denial can turn to fear, guilt, anger, sadness, and a sense of hopelessness. Some people even have suicidal thoughts. It is understandable that one might feel helpless and/or fear illness, disability and even death.
Support from family and friends can be very helpful at these times, as can professional help. It is important for people with HIV to talk about their feelings. Physicians, including psychiatrists, as well as knowledgeable and supportive friends and loved ones can help. Remember that any strong and lasting reactions call for some kind of assistance, and that there is always help through counseling.
Depression
Depression is a serious condition that affects thoughts, feelings, and the ability to function in daily life. It is twice as common in people with HIV as in the general population. Depression is characterized by the presence of most or all of the following symptoms: low mood; apathy; fatigue; inability to concentrate; loss of pleasure in activities; changes in appetite and weight; trouble sleeping; low self-worth; and, possibly, thoughts of suicide. There are many different types of treatments for depression, including antidepressants and specific types of psychotherapy, or “talk” therapy. Treatment, however, must be carefully chosen by a physician or a mental health professional based on the patient’s physical and mental condition.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a feeling of panic or apprehension, which is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, shortness of breath, rapid heart beat, agitation, nervousness, headaches and panic. Anxiety can accompany depression or be seen as a disorder by itself, often caused by circumstances which result in fear, uncertainty or insecurity.
Each person with HIV and each experience of anxiety is unique, and must be treated as such. Many drugs offer effective treatment, and many alternative remedies have proven useful either alone or in combination with medication. Among them body work, acupuncture, meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, aerobic exercise, and supportive group therapy.
Substance Use
Substance use is common among people with HIV infection. Unfortunately, substance use can trigger and often complicate mental health problems. For many, mental health problems predate substance use activity. Substance use can increase levels of distress, interfere with treatment adherence, and lead to impairment in thinking and memory. Diagnosis and treatment by a psychiatrist or other qualified physician is critical as symptoms can mimic psychiatric disorders and other mental health problems.
Cognitive Disorders
Direct or indirect effects of the HIV virus can affect brain functioning. Some medications used to treat HIV infection can also cause similar complications. In people with HIV infection or AIDS, these complications can have significant impact on daily functioning and greatly diminish quality of life. Among the most common disorders are HIV-associated minor cognitive motor disorder, HIV-associated dementia, delirium, and psychosis. Signs of trouble may include forgetfulness, confusion, attention deficits, slurred or changed speech, sudden changes in mood or behavior, difficulty walking, muscle weakness, slowed thinking and difficulty finding words.
People with HIV who have any of these problems should discuss their concerns with their physician immediately. New anti-HIV therapies in combination with psychiatric medication can reverse delirium and dementia and markedly improve cognition; however, special care must be taken to ensure that the drugs do not interact with HIV medications. Psychotherapy can also help patients understand their condition and adapt to their diminished level of functioning.
Conclusion
HIV infection and AIDS affect all aspects of a person’s life. People with HIV/AIDS must adapt to a chronic, life-threatening illness and corresponding physical and mental challenges. In addition, they often face a myriad of emotional demands ranging from stress, anger and grief to helplessness, depression and cognitive disorders. If you have concerns about your or a loved one’s mood, memory, thinking process, or other mental problems associated with HIV discuss them with your doctor or counselor. Treatments are available and can greatly improve quality of life. With comprehensive and compassionate care, many mental health challenges can be overcome with support, counseling, and understanding.
