Gathering Trauma Narratives

Abstract

background Trauma-emotional, physical, and psychological-is common and associated with increased risk behaviors, low rates of care engagement and viral suppression, and overall poor health outcomes for people living with HIV (PLWH). This article presents the results of 15 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with PLWH in the Southeastern United States in which participants identified a trauma and described its long-lasting impact on their lives. Participants' trauma narratives described a wide range of traumas, including childhood sexual abuse, the loss of a loved one, and their HIV diagnosis. methods Systematic qualitative analysis was used to delineate beliefs about causes, symptoms, treatments, quality of life, and health implications of trauma. results: Fifteen participants completed semi-structured interviews that lasted on average 32 minutes. Participants described a wide spectrum of personal trauma that occurred both prior and subsequent to their HIV diagnosis. The types of trauma identified included physical, sexual, and psychological abuse inflicted by intimate partners, family members, and/or strangers. limitations A chief limitation of this study is selection bias. Additionally, the participant selection and content of the trauma narratives might have been affected by the surrounding context of the parent study centered on HIV, aging, and psychosocial stress. It is also difficult to interpret the distinction between discrete trauma experiences and the diagnosis of HIV, leading to potential information bias. conclusion This study highlights the importance of social support in coping with trauma and the effect of trauma on health-related behaviors. It also illustrates the need for additional research on the topic of trauma and trauma-informed care for PLWH. Understanding how different types of trauma affect individuals' lives is necessary to inform recommendations to provide better care for PLWH.

COVID-19 Burden and Risk Among People With HIV

“…Participants with a history of traumatic events were most likely to experience the negative impact of COVID-19 prevention measures and more likely to have comorbid disorders associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19. Previous studies have illustrated greater prevalence of trauma among PWH 39–42 and have highlighted the far-reaching consequences of trauma on overall health. 43,44 Expanding training and capacity in trauma aware care for HIV care providers, especially through virtual platforms, may be a useful strategy for better health outcomes for affected individuals.…”