Psychiatric Morbidity Among Hiv Victims

Abstract

BACKGROUNDThe natural course of HIV is a chronic, physically and psychologically disabling and stigmatising illness. The emotional distress and consequences of HIV are enormous which may modify the course, complications and outcome of illness. Psychiatric symptoms not only interfere with quality of life, but also interfere with functional capacity and treatment compliance. Early identification of emotional disturbances may help in effective management of both psychiatric aspects and physical consequences of HIV.