Comparison of Depression, Anxiety, Stress and Related Factors among Women and Men with HIV Infection

Authors: Saadat Mina, Behboodi M. Zahra, Saadat Ebrahim, Ziba Taghizadeh,Azam Gholzari

Abstract

Aims: To compare depression, anxiety, stress and related factors among women and men with HIV Infection.

Settings and Design: In this cross-sectional survey conducted between November and September 2013, 200 participants with HIV/AIDS attending Consultation Centers.

Methods and Material: Participants with HIV/AIDS were interviewed using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales questionnaire (DASS₂₁).

Statistical analysis used: The data were analyzed using SPSS software, version 20 (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA).

Results: There were significant associations between marital status of women and the level of depression (p<0.05). However the mean depression and anxiety in women are greater than men (p<0.05), and the mean stress in men is greater than women (p<0.05).

Conclusions: HIV infection is related with Psychiatric disorders. According to the results, women are more vulnerable to depression and anxiety and they need more care. Management of these psychiatric disorders is very important and requires innovative comprehensive approaches.

Keywords: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, HIV, AIDS