Depression, Anxiety and Stress among People Living with HIV/AIDs

The present study explored gender, age and diagnosis related differences in depression, anxiety and stress among a small sample (n=160) of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) and a matched sample of undiagnosed respondents. The People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) group was found to experience more depression, anxiety and stress than a demographically similar undiagnosed group. Women irrespective of diagnosis were more depressed and stressed than males. Anxiety was highest among males in the PLHA group. The study highlights the vulnerable position of PLHA in India, especially the HIV infected women who due to their secondary gender status and its associated consequences experience substantial level of general distress.