The family of HIV infected persons: co-infected.

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1992. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

The family of HIV infected persons: co-infected.

Int Conf AIDS. 1992 Jul 19-24;8(1):Mo19 (abstract no. MoD 0069). Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA8/92400028
Rosa de Castro MJ; Adams IK; Federal University of Minas Cerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

Abstract: ISSUE/PROBLEM: While multidisciplinary clinics focus on biopsychosocial as well as clinical problems of the HIV infected person, the family also has its complaints which need to be diagnosed. The family of persons with HIV have difficulty helping their infected member without psychosocial support. DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: Working in a multidisciplinary team at the only reference clinic for HIV infection in this city (population 3.5 million), the Social Worker made a psychosocial diagnosis of the family of the HIV infected person. During support activities, information was gathered from weekly family group meetings and individual interviews at the clinic and from extramural contacts such as home visits, outings, social events and informal encounters. RESULTS: During four years of providing psychosocial support to families of HIV infected persons, the observation of complaints, conscious and unconscious, expressed verbally and non-verbally led to the conclusion that the family experiences the same psychological phases lived out by the patient: negation, anger, bargaining, interiorization, acceptance, and the same psychosocial reactions: discrimination, isolation, fear of loss of job, friends. The family only lacks the presence of the virus. The family is co-infected. LESSON LEARNED: The diagnosis of the psychosocial situation of the family with an HIV infected member showed that the family needs support and affection as much as its infected member. The family is in the same psychosocial situation as the patient. Social workers and other health professionals cannot ignore the accompaniment of those who spend the greatest time with the patient. This will lead to self help, capacity to help the infected member, and to help other families.

Keywords: Ambulatory Care Facilities Brazil *Family Health Human HIV Infections/PSYCHOLOGY/*THERAPY Social Problems Social Support *Social Work ABSTRACT
921230
M92C5319

AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Boehringer Ingelheim, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Elton John AIDS Foundation, Gill Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Quest Diagnostics, Roche and Trimeris, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1992. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 1992. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .