Association between Psychological Wellbeing and Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence in North-Central, Nigeria

Abstract

Psychological wellbeing of antiretroviral patients in Nigeria is under researched despite being a critical success factor in ART adherence. Using a sample of antiretroviral therapy patients (n=641) from six clinics in North central Nigeria in a cross sectional mixed method approach, we examined the domain of psychological wellbeing that is associated with ART adherence. ART adherence was 88%. Environmental mastery (84.4%), Autonomy (73.2%) and Self-acceptance (65.4%) were associated with higher ART adherence. Among sociodemographic characteristics, only states of residence (X 2 = 26.0841, p<.05) was significant. Cognitive behavioural therapy by a skilled psychologist is crucial for empowering ART patients to maintain optimal ART adherence.