HIV-related stigma, social support and depression among People Living With HIV

Abstract

This study sought to examine the relationship between HIV-related stigma, social support and depression among people living with HIV. In this quantitative research study, simple random sampling was used to recruit twenty (20) respondents (people living with HIV) in Kawempe Division, Kampala Capital City. A correlational research design was employed to collect information on demographics, HIV-related stigma, social support, and depression. Correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between HIV-related stigma and social support, and between HIV-related stigma and depression. Further, correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between social support and depression. The study findings indicated the necessity of appropriate assessment and intervention for both HIV related stigma and depression among people living with HIV. Interventions to provide social support structures were recommended to enable people living with HIV to cope better with the disease and create a sense of satisfaction, fulfillment and hope among people living with HIV.