Rodenie Arnaiz Olete

This syposium highlighted recurring themes of the critical role of mental health in HIV care, the impact of stigma, and the need for integrated, community-based interventions. Speakers emphasized resilience, safe spaces for discussion, and innovative approaches to address mental health challenges among people living with and affected by HIV.

Moderator Rivet Amico from University of Michigan emphasized crucial role of mental health in HIV care, calling it "a fundamental human right" and highlighting the global mental health crisis affecting 970M people. Lorraine Sherr from University College London discussed "Rates, Ramifications, and Responses" of mental health issues among people living with HIV, noting high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidality, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. She stressed impact of stigma and importance of resilience and coping strategies. Effective interventions included client-centered approaches/task-sharing models like Zvandiri program. “Mental health is a missing component in the AIDS response, especially among children and adolescents,” she noted. Jerop Limo, youth reproductive health ambassador in Kenya, highlighted need for safe spaces for mental health discussions, particularly for young people diagnosed with HIV. Annette Sohn from TREAT Asia showcased successful mental health care integration in HIV programs, including peer-led depression screening for transgender individuals, integrated collaborative care for youth, and group interpersonal therapy in Senegal. Alexandra Volgina from Global Network of People Living with HIV discussed the worsening of mental health issues during the attacks on Ukraine. She highlighted initiatives like burnout prevention programs for healthcare workers and online psychiatric consultations for women living with HIV.

This forum reminds us the vital intersection of mental health and HIV care, showcasing diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. Integrating mental health services in resource-limited settings is a significant challenge, but it also offers opportunities for scaling up. The success of community-based and peer-led interventions demonstrates great promise. However, scalability and sustainable funding are crucial for achieving long-term impact. Emphasizing resilience and creating safe spaces are key components, highlighting the necessity of a holistic approach to HIV care. These efforts illustrate the importance of addressing both physical and mental health needs to improve overall well-being for people living with HIV.