%0 Journal Article
%T Internalized HIV Stigma as a Predictor of Depression and Anxiety among Adults Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in Nigeria
%A Priya N. Sharma
%A Rakesh K. Verma
%A Neha S. Iyer
%J International Journal of Social and Psychological Aspects of Healthcare
%@ 3108-4818
%D 2022
%V 2
%N 1
%R 10.51847/N6sneI9lu6
%P 192-203
%X Understanding the extent of internalized stigma and psychological distress among people living with HIV (PLWH) is essential for identifying individuals who may require focused mental health support. This cross-sectional investigation examined the level of internalized HIV stigma (IHS) and the burden of depression and anxiety among 405 adults receiving HIV care in selected health facilities in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Data were obtained from participants during routine clinic visits using standardized self-report instruments. Internalized HIV stigma was assessed with a two-item measure adapted from the Functional Assessment of HIV Infection (FAHI). Symptoms of depression and anxiety were evaluated using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), respectively. The survey was conducted between October and November 2023, and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0.

A substantial proportion of respondents (77.8%) indicated reluctance or difficulty in disclosing their HIV status. High levels of internalized stigma were identified in 31.9% of participants. While most respondents did not report depressive symptoms (69.9%), severe depression was observed in 16.5% of the sample. Similarly, 72.1% reported no anxiety symptoms, whereas 17.3% experienced severe anxiety. Multivariate analysis showed that age, length of time on antiretroviral therapy, and participation in HIV support groups were significant determinants of depressive symptoms. In contrast, anxiety symptoms were significantly associated with age and duration of antiretroviral treatment. Internalized HIV stigma demonstrated a strong positive association with both depression (rs = 0.63, p < 0.001) and anxiety (rs = 0.64, p < 0.001). Internalized HIV stigma remains a significant concern among people living with HIV in this setting, despite a comparatively lower prevalence of reported depression and anxiety. These findings highlight the importance of integrating stigma-reduction strategies and mental health services, including both psychosocial and pharmacological approaches, into routine HIV care.
%U https://smerpub.com/article/internalized-hiv-stigma-as-a-predictor-of-depression-and-anxiety-among-adults-receiving-antiretrovir-d0fqjed8nempswz