Prevalence of potentially traumatic events and symptoms of depression, anxiety, hazardous alcohol use, and post-traumatic stress disorder among people with HIV initiating HIV care in Cameroon

Abstract

Background This study explored the relationship between specific types of potentially traumatic events (PTEs) and symptoms of mental health disorders among people with HIV (PWH) in Cameroon. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study with 426 PWH in Cameroon between 2019–2020. Multivariable log binominal regression was used to estimate the association between exposure (yes/no) to six distinct types of PTE and symptoms of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 score > 9), PTSD (PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 score > 30), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale score > 9), and hazardous alcohol use (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test score > 7 for men; > 6 for women). Results A majority of study participants (96%) reported exposure to at least one PTE, with a median of 4 PTEs (interquartile range: 2–5). The most commonly reported PTEs were seeing someone seriously injured or killed (45%), family members hitting or harming one another as a child (43%), physical assault or abuse from an intimate partner (42%) and witnessing physical assault or abuse (41%). In multivariable analyses, the prevalence of PTSD symptoms was significantly higher among those who reported experiencing PTEs during childhood, violent PTEs during adulthood, and the death of a child. The prevalence of anxiety symptoms was significantly higher among those who reported experiencing both PTEs during childhood and violent PTEs during adulthood. No significant positive associations were observed between specific PTEs explored and symptoms of depression or hazardous alcohol use after adjustment. Conclusions PTEs were common among this sample of PWH in Cameroon and associated with PTSD and anxiety symptoms. Research is needed to foster primary prevention of PTEs and to address the mental health sequelae of PTEs among PWH.

Mental Health and Psychosocial Effects of natural disaster on HIV Patients

“…Symptoms of PTSD, such as intrusive thoughts, hyperarousal, and avoidance behaviors, may persist long after the disaster has occurred, significantly impairing daily functioning and exacerbating the existing challenges of managing a chronic illness like HIV. 83 Additionally, depression and anxiety disorders tend to linger as enduring mental health concerns among HIV-positive individuals affected by natural disasters. The ongoing stressors stemming from the disruption of routine, loss of stability, and difficulties in rebuilding life post-disaster contribute to a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms and anxiety disorders within this demographic.…”

“…The ongoing stressors stemming from the disruption of routine, loss of stability, and difficulties in rebuilding life post-disaster contribute to a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms and anxiety disorders within this demographic. 83 These long-term mental health effects often lead to a complex interplay of physical and psychological health issues. Chronic stress and mental health disorders can impact immune function, potentially affecting HIV disease progression and treatment outcomes.…”