HIV and Mental Health (In recognition of Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day!!)

Tap into the dialogue around Mental Health and HIV.

Anyone can have mental health problems. Mental health conditions are common in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in 2019, about one in five American adults experienced a mental health issue.

People with HIV are at high risk of some mental health conditions because of the stress associated with living with HIV. For example, people living with HIV are twice as likely to have depression as people who do not have HIV.

It is important to remember that mental health conditions are treatable and that people who have mental health problems can recover.

The following factors can increase the risk of mental health problems in anyone:

• Major life changes, such as the death of a loved one or the loss of a job
• Negative life experiences, such as abuse or trauma
• Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry
• A family history of mental health problems

In addition to these factors, the stress of having a serious medical illness or condition, like HIV, may also negatively affect a person's mental health. Situations that can contribute to mental health problems in people with HIV include:

• Difficulty in telling others about an HIV diagnosis
• Stigma and discrimination associated with HIV
• Loss of social support and isolation
• Difficulty in getting mental health services

With Guest Speakers.

• Kia Price - MSW - (Master of Social Work)
• Langston Jones - Prevention Specialist - Vivent Health Center KC

HIV and Mental Health | NIH

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