Demographic variables, social support, and depression among persons testing for HIV/AIDS

Abstract

This was a cross sectional descriptive study set out to investigate the prevalence of depression among persons screening for HIV/AIDS. It involved 100 adult respondents interviewed using standardized instruments, BDI and SSQ before HIV/AIDS screening. Depression was high in the sample 39%; HIV/AIDS positive persons were 27% and 20 % were both HIV/AIDS positive and depressed. Demographic factors were significantly associated with depression at pre-test except for sex and employment. Social support was found to significantly shield individuals from depression. At post-test depression remained high even among those who were HIV/AIDS positive. Most demographic factors were again significantly associated with depression except for education. In conclusion, depression is high among persons screening for HIV/AIDS, high among those who screen positive. Social support was a shield to depression.