The Prevalence, Correlates, and Costs of Depression in People Living With HIV/AIDS in Ontario: Implications for Service Directions

As new technologies extend the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS (PHA), the need increases for services that optimize their quality-of-life cost effectively. This study of PHAs (n = 297) in Ontario, Canada, examined the prevalence of depression, and its association with quality-of-life, coping strategies, social support, and use of health and social services. Results showed that depression was widespread (54.2%) and largely unrelated to demographic characteristics, but associated with diminished health status, health-related quality-of-life, and coping strategies. Depressed PHAs used significantly more crisis health care and related services, and community-based HIV/AIDS service organizations (ASOs). Findings suggest quality-of-life of PHAs may be improved by expanding the capacity of ASO workers to recognize and address depression, including helping depressed PHA access appropriate medication and sustain medication regimes.

The Prevalence, Correlates, and Costs of Depression in People Living With HIV/AIDS in Ontario: Implications for Service Directions Journal Articles