Correlates of emotional distress among HIV+ youths: Health status, stress, and personal resources

Abstract

The level of emotional distress and the impact of stress and personal resources on distress were examined among 149 youths aged 14-23 who tested seropositive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV+). These HIV+ females and males (the males were predominantly gay and bisexual) were relatively healthy (M T cells=516; 17% T cells >200; 3.8 physical symptoms in the previous three months) and reported levels of emotional distress and self-esteem similar to uninfected adolescents. Youths experienced about three stressful life events in the previous three months, primarily death/illness of friends and violent crimes. Youths were less likely to utilize self destructive, avoidant, and depressed coping styles in contrast to taking positive actions. Social support from parents, friends, and romantic partners was high, but these support persons often engaged in sexual and substance use risk acts. Controlling for youths' physical health status, increased emotional distress was associated with significantly lower self-esteem, higher stress, and negative coping styles. Social support did not mediate emotional distress among HIV+ youths.

Understanding the interface of HIV, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use and its implications for health outcomes

“…For the HIV-positive individual, continued participation in these types of behaviours can contribute to additional health problems, including the acquisition of sexually transmitted diseases and common co-infections such as hepatitis (Rotheram-Borus et al, 1996), as well as possible reinfection with a more virulent or drug-resistant strain of HIV (Halkitis, 1998). The latter may limit treatment options and contribute to more rapid disease progression and poorer health outcomes (Halkitis & Wilton, 1999).…”

Sexual Behavior Change Among Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Adolescents With Hemophilia

“…18,19 In the developmental phase of the HBIEP and in another project with seropositive youth, emotional distress was found to be associated with risk behavior, withdrawal, and problem avoidance. 20,21 For this study, safer sexual behavior was defined as abstinence, condom use, or nonpenetrative sexual behaviors (outercourse). Participants were classified according to their report of any of these safer sexual behaviors along the stages of change as defined by the TM.…”

Use of HIV primary care by HIV-positive Haitian immigrants in Miami, Florida

“…This confirms previous findings that this population exhibits high rates of life-threatening conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure (Saint-Jean & Crandall, 2005). Additionally, the finding that participants were subject to high levels of psychological distress which may have had negatively affected their use of primary care services has been reported by previous studies which have noted that many of their patients were subsequently diagnosed with major depression or other mental health disorders (Rotheram-Borus, Murphy, Reid, & Coleman, 1996; Basta, Reece, & Shacham, 2008). The authors of these studies have recommended that mental health services be fully and routinely integrated into the medical care of HIV patients (Rotheram-Borus et al, 1996; Basta et al, 2008).…”

“…Additionally, the finding that participants were subject to high levels of psychological distress which may have had negatively affected their use of primary care services has been reported by previous studies which have noted that many of their patients were subsequently diagnosed with major depression or other mental health disorders (Rotheram-Borus, Murphy, Reid, & Coleman, 1996; Basta, Reece, & Shacham, 2008). The authors of these studies have recommended that mental health services be fully and routinely integrated into the medical care of HIV patients (Rotheram-Borus et al, 1996; Basta et al, 2008). In addition to improved access to health services, other potential benefits of mental health care for these patients may include enhanced adherence to HIV medication, lower-risk sexual behaviors, increased disclosure of serostatus to sex partner, and improved overall quality of life (Basta et al, 2008).…”