Abstract:
While the characteristics of those who seek psychosocial support following an HIV diagnosis have been well
documented in western countries where linkages between HIV-related treatment and psychosocial support pro-
grams are well established, little is known about those who become engaged with such services in countries of
the world where comprehensive HIV-related care and prevention systems are continuing to develop. Data were
collected from 397 individuals who had enrolled in HIV-related psychosocial support groups in western Kenya
in November 2005. Demographic and HIV-related characteristics, as well as assessments of psychological dis-
tress, were collected from each participant and analyzed by gender in order to document the characteristics of
those seeking psychosocial care in conjunction with their participation in an HIV-related treatment and pre-
vention program. Those seeking psychosocial support were primarily female (72%), living with HIV for an av-
erage of 2.5 years, and unemployed (70%). Women were younger and more likely to be either widowed or never
married; while men were more likely to have advanced HIV disease, including lower CD4 counts and an AIDS
diagnosis. Across all participants, HIV serostatus disclosure was rarely reported to sex partners, family mem-
bers, and friends. Symptoms of psychological distress were more prevalent among women on multiple mea-
sures, including depression, anxiety, paranoid ideation, interpersonal sensitivity, and somatization. An increased
understanding of the characteristics of those likely to seek psychosocial support groups will help HIV program
managers to develop protocols necessary for facilitating linkages to psychosocial support for those enrolled in
HIV-related treatment programs. Patient engagement in psychosocial support may facilitate improvements in
psychological function and support an individual’s maintenance of HIV treatment and prevention behaviors
