Content area
Full text
Introduction
HIV/AIDS Overview
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the causative agent of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). By the end of 2022, approximately 39.0 million [33.1–45.7 million] people globally were living with HIV [1]. According to the UNAIDS in Vietnam, the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in adults aged 15 to 49 HIV was 0.3 percent [0.3–0.4 percent] in 2023, with a total of 250 thousand [230–270 thousand] adults and children living with HIV [2]. This prevalence may vary across different regions in Vietnam. In 2005, Thuong et al. [3] found that among female sex workers, there was a reported HIV/AIDS prevalence of 4.5% across five border provinces of Vietnam, with the prevalence ranging from 4% up to 7% in southern border regions, while northern regions had a lower prevalence of around 2% [3]. Additionally, studies among men who have sex with men in Ho Chi Minh City revealed that they have high-risk sexual behaviors while insufficient knowledge about HIV prevention [4]. Also at Ho Chi Minh City, the HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men significantly increased over time, from 5.8% in 2006 to 12.1% in 2013 [5]. Worth noting, people living with HIV (PLWH) in Vietnam face significant discrimination, exacerbated by associations with drug use and sex work. This stigma creates barriers to accessing healthcare and social services, leading to poorer health outcomes for PLWH [6].
ART overview
Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is a must for PLWH to treat the disease. Having less HIV in the body protects the immune system and prevents HIV infection from advancing to AIDS [7]. Studies have indicated that strict adherence to ART regimens leads to alleviation of symptoms and better overall health status, enabling individuals to resume their normal daily activities [8]. Moreover, individuals with robust social support systems may experience better physical and mental health outcomes, which, in turn, enhances their capacity to lead normal lives, including working and studying [9]. Therefore, it is recommended that PLWH under ART receive comprehensive care, including mental health support [10].
Importance of mental health in PLWH
Mental health is significant in PLWH. Studies have shown that PLWH are at risk of common mental health disorders, including a higher suicide burden [11]. Poor mental health has been associated with HIV disease...