1. Understanding the interface of HIV, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use and its implications for health outcomes.
- Author
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Brief, D. J., Bollinger, A. R., Vielhauer, M. J., Berger-greenstein, J. A., Morgan, E. E., Brady, S. M., Buondonno, L. M., and Keane, T. M.
- Subjects
HIV-positive persons ,POST-traumatic stress disorder ,SUBSTANCE abuse ,HEALTH behavior ,ANTIRETROVIRAL agents ,MEDICAL care - Abstract
Many individuals living with HIV have been exposed to some type of traumatic event during their lives and may be living with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A substantial number of these individuals are also likely to show evidence of a co-morbid substance use disorder (SUD). There is reason to believe that the co-occurrence of HIV and PTSD or co-morbid PTSD and SUD (PTSD/SUD) may predict poorer health outcomes. There are several pathways through which PTSD or PTSD/SUD might adversely impact the health of individuals living with HIV, including participation in negative health behaviours, low levels of adherence to antiretroviral medications, and/or a direct, deleterious effect on immune function. Psychological interventions are needed to treat PTSD and PTSD/SUD in HIV-positive individuals, and reduce the negative impact of these conditions on health outcomes. This article will explore data on the prevalence of trauma exposure, PTSD, and PTSD/SUD among individuals living with HIV, the pathways through which these conditions might affect health, possible interventions for PTSD and PTSD/SUD for individuals living with HIV, and methods for integrating care for individuals with these disorders. Future directions for research related to HIV, PTSD, and PTSD/SUD will also be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2004
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