Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
South African Press Association - July 24, 2006
"Both the public and people treating HIV infection should be aware of the mental manifestations of HIV infection. These range from minor intellectual difficulties [forgetfulness, poor concentration] to serious memory problems and sudden onset of psychiatric symptoms such as psychosis and mania," Sasop said.
In addition, 89% of home-based care workers were themselves suffering from depression, a study by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) found.
HIV-positive children also suffer from anxiety and mood disorders and disruptive behavioural disorders.
"In addition, the children may fear losing their parents and home, rejection by peers, exploitation, their own failing health or early death. Care givers dealing with these children should be well educated and sensitive to the needs of these children," Sasop said.
As a result of this finding, Sadag has been working for three years on a major HIV/Aids and depression initiative, running workshops in rural areas on managing the illness.
"Psycho-social support to HIV-infected individuals and their families is critically important."
The group also expressed concern about the ethical issues of testing mentally ill people for the disease without their informed consent.
"An ethical approach to HIV testing in these people is imperative."
Sasop said it believed that antiretroviral therapy was essential for mentally ill HIV-positive people, who also needed emotional support.
"To ensure mental wellbeing of patients, the need for antiretroviral medication is all the more urgent.
"People who have both serious mental disorders and HIV infection need additional support, especially when they are taking antiretroviral medication. The support should be both emotional and help for them to take their antiretrovirals in the prescribed manner."
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