Burden of pain, perceived social support and depression among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA): a case study of Kiswa Health Centre IV

Abstract

HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health issue, affecting millions and is often accompanied by a range of severe physical and psychological symptoms such as chronic pain, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. The virus undermines the immune system, leading to chronic health issues and frequent infections, including opportunistic infections. These exacerbate emotional distress, thereby heightening the psychological impact of the diagnosis, marked by depression, and concerns about transmission, further amplifying the emotional burden of living with HIV. This study aimed to examine the relationships between burden of pain, perceived social support and depression among persons living with HIV/AIDS. The study used a quantitative approach, participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. A sample of 150 participants living with HIV/AIDS receiving treatment for more than 18 years were involved in the study. Results from the study revealed that burden of pain and perceived social support weren’t significantly related r(148) =.030, p>.01. The study also revealed that burden of pain and depression r(148) =.327, p<.01 were significantly related. The results revealed that Perceived social support from family was negatively related with depression r(148)= -.169, p<0.05, perceived social support from significant others and friends were not significantly related to depression r(148)= -0.092, p<0.05, r(148)=-0.150, p>0.05 respectively. Results from the study also revealed that Perceived social support did not mediate the relationship between Pain Burden and depression. Collectively these findings imply that the burden of pain, perceived social support and depression should be assessed and targeted for management among PLWH because they can exacerbate the HIV condition and reduce the patients’ quality of life. Interventions that cater for pain management, assessing and treating depression as well as enhancing perceived social support should be integrated into the management of people living with HIV/AIDS.