Depression and undertreatment in people with HIV AIDS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25118/2763-9037.2025.v15.1398Keywords:
Depression, HIV, Mental Health, medication use, SIDAAbstract
Introduction: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent and underdiagnosed psychiatric conditions among individuals living with HIV AIDS. Its occurrence is significantly higher in this group compared to the general population, often associated with undertreatment leading to impairments in the quantity and quality of life of these individuals. Objective: To evaluate the indication of depression and its undertreatment in individuals with HIV AIDS. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted between May 1 and July 31, 2011, with all individuals treated at the AIDS treatment center in a city in southern Santa Catarina. The Beck Depression Inventory was used to detect indications of depression, and medical records were consulted to verify the medications in use and to assess possible undertreatment. Results: The prevalence of indications of depression among the participants in the aforementioned study was 53.7%. Of these, 57.8% did not use psychiatric medications. Specifically, 79% did not use antidepressants, 75% did not use benzodiazepines, 94% did not use mood stabilizers, and 98% did not use antipsychotics. Only 2.7% used other psychiatric medications and/or drug combinations. Discussion: Although the prevalence of depression was significant, a high rate of undertreatment was observed, and there was a significant percentage of individuals not receiving adequate interventions. Conclusion: The undertreatment of depression in individuals with HIV AIDS indicates the need for actions to improve diagnostic capacity and psychiatric interventions in this population. Expanding mental health strategies can contribute to comprehensive and effective management, in addition to improving the quality of life of these patients.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Márcio José Dal-Bó, Leonardo Kfouri Medeiros, Bruno Pedro Marques de Avellar Dal-Bó, Gislaine Tezza Rezin, Rosemeri Maurici da Silva
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