AIDS Day: People suffering from HIV have to face these mental challenges, know the ways to deal with it.
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Historically, AIDS was first identified in West Africa in the late 19th century. However, lack of awareness (especially among children under 15) has contributed to its spread. Many people became victims of AIDS simply because they did not know how to treat it. According to the United Nations report of April 2016, India ranks third in AIDS cases globally, with more than 18.2 million cases.
lack of awareness
Untreated cases due to lack of awareness raise concerns that deaths worldwide could reach 30 million by 2030. Instead of focusing only on the problems, it is important to also focus on the solutions.
What is HIV?
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV can be spread during sex, by sharing syringes, or during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding.
These things are affected
HIV weakens the immune system by destroying CD4+ T cells, a type of white blood cell that is important for fighting infection. The destruction of these cells means that people with HIV are more vulnerable to other infections and diseases.
HIV patients are most prone to depression
The stress associated with living with a serious disease or condition like HIV can affect a person’s mental health. People living with HIV are more likely to develop mood, anxiety and cognitive disorders. Depression, for example, is one of the most common mental health conditions faced by people living with HIV.
Education is important in prevention of AIDS
HIV affects not only the brain but also other parts of the nervous system. Due to which a person’s way of thinking and behaving can change. Additionally, some medications used to treat HIV can have side effects that affect a person’s mental health. Individuals vulnerable to HIV or living with the virus are more likely to experience mental health problems, increasing the risk of both HIV infection and poor health. Mental health care needs to be prioritized with the right resources to improve outcomes, including integration into treatment settings, support for HIV testing and screening. Research indicates that excessive stress can complicate HIV treatment, increase viral load and increase the risk of developing AIDS. While education is important in preventing HIV/AIDS,
Mental health problems for HIV patients
Here are some of the conditions that may contribute to mental health problems for someone living with HIV:
– Difficulty obtaining mental health services
– Experiencing loss of social support, resulting in isolation
– Experiencing loss of employment or concerns about being able to perform at work
– Dealing with loss, including loss of relationships or death of loved ones
– Facing stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS
collective effort needed
The time has come for collective efforts, victim support and dedication for an HIV/AIDS free future. There is a need for ongoing active campaigns to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and address various aspects of the issue. Eliminating stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS remains a challenge. State governments, local organizations, student groups, civil society organizations (CSOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the media all play important roles in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Joint efforts will make a significant impact in eliminating common misconceptions about HIV and AIDS. These community efforts not only inspire but also strengthen the determination to move forward in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
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