HIV/AID
While mental health is closely linked to HIV prevention and treatment outcomes, Individuals struggling with mental health issues are more likely to engage in risky behaviors that increase their vulnerability to HIV infection i.e., depression and substance abuse can lead to impaired judgment, resulting in unsafe sexual practices, such as inconsistent condom use, multiple sexual partners, and transactional sex. In further, people with mental health conditions may have reduced access to HIV prevention services, as stigma and discrimination can deter them from seeking information, testing, and other preventive measures.
Meanwhile, People living with HIV (PLHIV) often face significant psychological stress due to the chronic nature of the disease, the stigma associated with it, and the challenges of adhering to lifelong ART. Depression and anxiety are common among PLHIV, and these conditions negatively impact treatment adherence, leading to poorer health outcomes, increased viral load, and a higher risk of HIV transmission. In further evidence, according to Sherr, L., et al. (2011)[9], PLHIV with untreated mental health issues are less likely to adhere to their ART regimen, attend medical appointments, and/or follow up on their treatment plans hence this non-adherence results in treatment failure, drug resistance, and increased mortality rates.
Therefore, the Tanzania Mental Health Summit will explore and promote integration of mental health services into the existing HIV response to enhance the effectiveness of prevention strategies, improve treatment adherence, and ultimately reduce the burden of HIV in the country