Why is it important to address mental health disorders in persons living with HIV?
HIV infection increases the risk of developing psychiatric disorders, including depression, mania, psychosis, and substance abuse (Treisman, 1999). For patients with preexisting mental illness, a diagnosis of HIV can significantly impact their ability to cope with HIV disease, adhere to treatment regimens, and take advantage of support networks and care systems, and can result in deterioration in their quality of life. Individuals with previous histories of mood, cognitive, or anxiety disorders may exhibit a reemergence or exacerbation of symptoms. As persons with HIV/AIDS live longer and the focus of care shifts from acute to chronic, the long-term psychological impact of HIV disease becomes more apparent. What common HIV-related medical conditions have psychiatric symptoms? It is essential for primary care providers to be aware of the need for a comprehensive evaluation of psychiatric symptoms in persons with HIV disease. Many psychiatric symptoms can indicate an underlying opportuni
