Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being that is often overlooked daily. It is even more critical to pay attention to mental health when dealing with HIV-positive individuals.
Therefore, it is essential to assess the mental health of such patients regularly to ensure they receive the necessary support and care.
What is mental health?
Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.
It is an integral component of health and well-being, underpinning our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships, and shape the world we live in.
The concept of mental health is not a simple one. It is a complex and multifaceted continuum that is experienced differently by each individual.
Mental health difficulties and distress can vary widely from person to person, potentially leading to diverse social and clinical outcomes.
For individuals living with HIV, prioritizing both physical and mental health is crucial. Unfortunately, people with HIV have a higher risk of developing certain mental health conditions than those who do not have HIV.
It is important to address these risks and prioritize mental health care for anyone living with HIV.
What can cause mental health problems in people with HIV?
The following factors can increase the risk of mental health problems in HIV-positive people:
- Difficulty in telling others about an HIV diagnosis
- Stigma and discrimination associated with HIV
- Loss of social support and isolation
- High viral load
It’s important to note that people living with HIV are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders due to various factors, including opportunistic infections.
These infections can cause damage to the central nervous system, leading to cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
For instance, toxoplasmosis, a common opportunistic infection in individuals with HIV, can cause behavioral changes, confusion, and seizures.
Therefore, managing these infections is crucial in preventing or managing mental health issues in people living with HIV.
Signs that you as a patient may experience
- Your eating habits switch, whether over or under-eating
- your energy levels may go down
- You will be shying away from others
- Feeling persistent despair
- Indulging in alcohol, tobacco, or other substances more than usual
- Experiencing unexplained confusion, anger, guilt, or worry
- You might be experiencing severe mood swings
- Picking fights with relatives and friends
- Thinking of harming yourself or causing harm to others
- Being unable to perform daily tasks with ease
Common mental health conditions after diagnosed with HIV
Depression is a common mental health condition that people with HIV often experience due to stress. Its symptoms include persistent sadness, feelings of emptiness, decreased energy, loss of interest in things that once brought joy, and difficulty sleeping.
Anxiety symptoms vary but often include feelings of nervousness or panic, difficulty sleeping, rapid heartbeat, and nausea.
People living with HIV are also at an increased risk for mood disorders, which can impact their thinking, feeling, and daily life. Some of the symptoms include dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and ability to think, along with distinct manic or depressive states.
Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are defined as a way of thinking, feeling, and behaving that deviates from the expectations of society, causing lasting distress and problems functioning.
How to maintain a proper mental health and wellbeing
1. It can be challenging to deal with your emotions and thoughts on your own. That’s why it’s important to talk to someone you trust, who can lend an ear and provide support.
2. Writing down your feelings and what you want to discuss can help you to organize your thoughts and communicate them more effectively.
3. Being honest about how you are feeling is crucial, as it allows you to express yourself and get the help you need.
4. In addition to seeking support from others, taking care of your physical health is also important. Regular exercise can boost your mood and help you manage stress.
5. Prioritizing rest and sleep daily is essential for your overall well-being.
6. Trying meditation can also help promote mindfulness and reduce anxiety.
7. When facing life challenges, it’s important to learn coping skills that can help you navigate difficult situations. This can include self-care activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing a hobby.
8. Keeping in touch with loved ones can provide a sense of connection and support.
9. Finally, maintaining a positive outlook on life can help you cultivate resilience and find meaning in difficult experiences.
Treatment and recovery
Mental health conditions are treatable, and individuals with mental health problems can recover.
Integrated approaches that address both HIV and mental health lead to better overall health outcomes, well-being, and quality of life. Addressing both physical and mental health is crucial.
It is vital to maintain medication adherence, especially when it comes to managing HIV through the regular intake of prescribed antiretroviral therapy (ART).
Additionally, adopting a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, and practicing relaxation techniques can bring significant benefits to your lifestyle.
To have a strong support system, joining support groups and connecting with others who understand your experiences can also be helpful.
Exploring mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help you relax and manage stress.
Finally, it is always a good idea to consult a trusted mental healthcare provider who has experience in treating HIV patients. They can create a personalized treatment plan that includes medication, therapy, and social support to help you cope with the challenges of living with HIV.
Registered Nurse at the Ministry of Health and Social Services – Namibia.
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