MỨC ĐỘ KỲ THỊ VỀ BỆNH TÂM THẦN VÀ CÁC YẾU TỐ LIÊN QUAN Ở NGƯỜI BỆNH HIV TẠI THÀNH PHỐ HỒ CHÍ MINH

Abstract

Introduction: Many studies have showed that people living with HIV are at higher risk of developing various mental disorders compared to the general population. Therefore, it is important to enhance the understanding of mental health among people living with HIV, especially to reduce stigma associated with mental illness in this group. Objectives: This study estimated the level of stigma towards mental illness and identified associated factors among people living with HIV in Ho Chi Minh City. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 900 HIV patients receiving treatment at six departments of community counseling and support in Ho Chi Minh City. Patients were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The level of stigma towards mental illness was assessed using the CAMI-12 scale. Results: The stigma score for mental illness was 55.0 ± 8.4 points. Significant association was found between stigma towards mental illness and age group, gender, occupation, educational level, marital status, relationships with family members, duration of HIV infection, acquaintance with individuals with mental illness, and use of the Internet to seek information about mental health. Conclusion: The level of stigma towards mental illness among HIV patients is moderate.  Therefore, effective interventions and approaches need to be implemented to reduce stigma towards mental illness in the HIV patient community.