Psychosocial Needs of Women Infected with HIV

Abstract

This article describes an exploratory social work study that examined the psychosocial needs of HIV seropositive (HIV+) Caucasian women. A questionnaire was used to obtain both qualitative and quantitative data from the sample of 12 women. Further, more substantive data were obtained through in-depth interviews with 6 of the sample. Analysis of the data indicated a variety of needs which were both psychosocial and instrumental in nature. These included: information and support (especially at the time of diagnosis); assistance from health care professionals and friends; planning for present and future care of children; financial assistance; adjustment to the loss of employment; and finding accommodations. A majority of the women wanted increased contact with other HIV+ women. The need for more counselling and services specific to women and mothers was also expressed. Three interviewees were older widows whose husbands had died of AIDS. They appeared to have some unique issues. A number of dominant themes emerged from the in-depth interviews: the experience of being HIV+; experience with professional and service providers; help and support; experiences of parents; and finally, the emotional impact of being HIV+.

The Experiences, Needs, and Internet Use of Women Recently Diagnosed With HIV

“…These results are consistent with earlier studies that highlight the social support needs of HIV-infected women (Gordillo et al, 2009;Heath & Rodway, 1999;Levine, 2002) and reflect the urgency of developing strategies to identify women at risk for HIV infection in a timely manner before the disease advances. Addressing the unique experiences and needs of women living with HIV continues to be an underemphasized area among Internet-based resources for people living with HIV.…”

“…Prior research has indicated that HIV-infected women express a high need for social support (Heath & Rodway, 1999), and the results of this study show that this need arises very soon after diagnosis. Other studies have found that, while women are more likely than men to seek social support after diagnosis, they still receive an inadequate level of support (Gordillo et al, 2009).…”

“…Similarly, many of the women in this study believed that they could not discuss their HIV diagnoses with family members because it might upset their family members or their family members preferred to ignore it. Heath and Rodway (1999) found that many HIV-infected women sought support outside of their families and friends, and particularly desired support from other HIV-infected women. Although the Internet provides an opportunity for women living with HIV to connect with each other to receive social support, locating and utilizing online resources is an identified challenge.…”

The Lived Experiences of HIV-Positive, Pregnant Women in Thailand

“…Seropositive women also experience stigmatization, social isolation, and feelings of uncertainty and loss (e.g., Armistead, Morse, Forehand, Morse, & Clark, 1999;Armstrong, 1996;Bunting & Seaton, 1999;Crossley, 1988;Hacki, Somlai, Kelly, & Kalichman, 1997, Heath & Rodway, 1999Ingram & Hutchinson, 1999;Goggin et al, 2001;Palyo, 1995;Russell & Smith, 1999;Sandelowski, Lambe, & Barroso, 2004;Withell, 2000). A study in Uganda reported on six seropositive women who experienced a sense of loss from the death of their husbands or children because of AIDS.…”

Life Story of and Depression in an HIV-Positive Pregnant Thai Woman Who Was a Former Sex Worker: Case Study

“…Research reveals that, in general, HIV-positive pregnant and nonpregnant women throughout the world commonly experience a sense of stigmatization, depression, and suicidal ideation in response to the acknowledgment of their HIV status (Armistead, Morse, Forehand, Morse, & Clark, 1999;Ball, Tannenbaum, Armistead, & Maguen, 2002;Crossley, 1998;Heath & Rodway, 1999;Ingram & Hutchinson, 1999;Rose & Clark-Alexander, 1996;Russell & Smith, 1999;Withell, 2000). Bua, like many other HIV-positive women, was clearly afraid of being stigmatized and experienced depression as well as suicidal contemplation.…”