by Arthur Buchanan
BASIC INFORMATION ON HIV AND AIDS
AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a
condition in which the body's immune system breaks down and is unable to
fight off infection. AIDS is caused by a virus called HIV, the Human
Immunodeficiency Virus. When a person is infected with HIV, the virus
enters the body and lives and multiplies primarily in the white blood
cells--cells that normally protect us from disease. The HIV virus
weakens the immune system leaving the body vulnerable to infections and
other illnesses, ranging from pneumonia to cancer.
The virus is spread when HIV-infected fluids of
one person pass into the body of another person. Infection can occur
through unprotected sex (anal, vaginal, or oral); through use of
contaminated needles, syringes and other piercing instruments; and from
mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breast feeding. In the
U.S., screening of the blood supply has virtually eliminated the risk of
infection through blood transfusions. Some people fear that HIV might be
transmitted in other ways (such as through air, water, or insect bites);
however, no scientific evidence to support any of these fears has been
found.
HIV-RELATED MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS
Mental health problems can affect anybody, but
people with HIV are more likely to experience a range of mental health
issues over the course of their lives. More common are feelings of acute
emotional distress, depression, and anxiety which can often accompany
adverse life-events. HIV can also directly infect the brain causing
impairment to memory and thinking. In addition some anti-HIV medications
can have mental health side effects.
Emotional distress
Receiving an HIV diagnosis can produce strong
emotional reactions. Initial feelings of shock and denial can turn to
fear, guilt, anger, sadness, and a sense of hopelessness. Some people
even have suicidal thoughts. It is understandable that one might feel
helpless and/or fear illness, disability and even death.
Support from family and friends can be very
helpful at these times, as can professional help. It is important for
people with HIV to talk about their feelings. Physicians, including
psychiatrists, as well as knowledgeable and supportive friends and loved
ones can help. Remember that any strong and lasting reactions call for
some kind of assistance, and that there is always help through
counseling.
Depression
Depression is a serious condition that affects
thoughts, feelings, and the ability to function in daily life. It is
twice as common in people with HIV as in the general population.
Depression is characterized by the presence of most or all of the
following symptoms: low mood; apathy; fatigue; inability to concentrate;
loss of pleasure in activities; changes in appetite and weight; trouble
sleeping; low self-worth; and, possibly, thoughts of suicide. There are
many different types of treatments for depression, including
antidepressants and specific types of psychotherapy, or "talk"
therapy. Treatment, however, must be carefully chosen by a physician or
a mental health professional based on the patient’s physical and
mental condition.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a feeling of panic or apprehension,
which is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating,
shortness of breath, rapid heart beat, agitation, nervousness, headaches
and panic. Anxiety can accompany depression or be seen as a disorder by
itself, often caused by circumstances which result in fear, uncertainty
or insecurity.
Each person with HIV and each experience of
anxiety is unique, and must be treated as such. Many drugs offer
effective treatment, and many alternative remedies have proven useful
either alone or in combination with medication. Among them body work,
acupuncture, meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, aerobic exercise,
and supportive group therapy.
Substance Use
Substance use is common among people with HIV
infection. Unfortunately, substance use can trigger and often complicate
mental health problems. For many, mental health problems predate
substance use activity. Substance use can increase levels of distress,
interfere with treatment adherence, and lead to impairment in thinking
and memory. Diagnosis and treatment by a psychiatrist or other qualified
physician is critical as symptoms can mimic psychiatric disorders and
other mental health problems.
Cognitive Disorders
Direct or indirect effects of the HIV virus can
affect brain functioning. Some medications used to treat HIV infection
can also cause similar complications. In people with HIV infection or
AIDS, these complications can have significant impact on daily
functioning and greatly diminish quality of life. Among the most common
disorders are HIV-associated minor cognitive motor disorder,
HIV-associated dementia, delirium, and psychosis. Signs of trouble may
include forgetfulness, confusion, attention deficits, slurred or changed
speech, sudden changes in mood or behavior, difficulty walking, muscle
weakness, slowed thinking and difficulty finding words.
People with HIV who have any of these problems
should discuss their concerns with their physician immediately. New
anti-HIV therapies in combination with psychiatric medication can
reverse delirium and dementia and markedly improve cognition; however,
special care must be taken to ensure that the drugs do not interact with
HIV medications. Psychotherapy can also help patients understand their
condition and adapt to their diminished level of functioning.
Conclusion
HIV infection and AIDS affect all aspects of a
person’s life. People with HIV/AIDS must adapt to a chronic,
life-threatening illness and corresponding physical and mental
challenges. In addition, they often face a myriad of emotional demands
ranging from stress, anger and grief to helplessness, depression and
cognitive disorders. If you have concerns about your or a loved one’s
mood, memory, thinking process, or other mental problems associated with
HIV discuss them with your doctor or counselor. Treatments are available
and can greatly improve quality of life. With comprehensive and
compassionate care, many mental health challenges can be overcome with
support, counseling, and understanding.
Because HIV infection and AIDS are associated with
a number of physical, psychiatric and psychological issues, it cannot be
sufficiently reviewed in a brief summary. The reader is encouraged to
consult their physician for further information. This summary is not
intended to stand on its own as a comprehensive evaluation of HIV and
AIDS.
Leading Psychiatrists are calling Arthur a
'walking miracle'-After 15 years in mental institutions, absorbing
inhumane shock treatments, abusing alcohol, he's now being called
worldwide’ The Zig Ziglar of Mental Illness 'Read about his amazing
comeback and what #1 best-selling author Mike Litman has called The Most
Inspirational Book of 2002' Out of Darkness - One Man's Journey From The
Depths Of Mental Illness to Pure Joy.
