Self-care management of anxiety and fear in HIV disease.
The purpose of this study is to describe the frequency and correlates of self-reported anxiety and fear and the self-care behaviors used to manage these symptoms. Data were collected in a convenience sample (N = 422) of HIV-positive subjects. Demographic and disease-related variables were compared for those who did and did not report anxiety and fear. Anxiety and fear were the most frequently reported symptoms (17.3%, n = 73). There were significant differences on gender, level of education, and the use of antiretroviral medications. Self-care behaviors (n = 212) for anxiety and fear were grouped into seven categories: using activities for distraction = 25%, talking to others = 21%, using alternative/complementary therapies = 18%, taking prescribed medications = 10%, using self-talk = 9%, using substances = 9%, and using avoidance behaviors = 7%. Anxiety and fear are commonly experienced by people with HIV/AIDS. Self-care strategies are imperative in the management of these clinical manifestations.
Kemppainen
Jeanne K
JK
School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Wilmington, USA.
Holzemer
William L
WL
Nokes
Kathleen
K
Eller
Lucille Sanzero
LS
Corless
Inge B
IB
Bunch
Eli Haugen
EH
Kirksey
Kenn M
KM
Goodroad
Brian K
BK
Portillo
Carmen J
CJ
Chou
Fang-Yu
FY
D000328:Adult; D019380:Anti-HIV Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001007:Anxiety / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001362:Avoidance Learning; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D004522:Educational Status; D005239:Fear; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012064:Relaxation Therapy; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D014481:United States
D019380:Anti-HIV Agents