How does stigma affect PHAs with depression?
The stigma associated with mental health problems like depression can cause the public to be uncomfortable around people who have mental health problems and discriminate against them. This externalized stigma can make ASO staff uncomfortable talking about depression or providing services for people who are depressed. Stigma can also take the form of self-loathing, in which people who are depressed internalize negative public attitudes towards mental illness. This internalized stigma can prevent PHAs from acknowledging their depression or seeking help for fear of being labeled mentally ill. It also compounds the stigma that many members of marginalized groups already experience having HIV.
