title: Mental health needs of people living with HIV/AIDS in India: a literature review.
abstract: We describe the global conditions associated with the AIDS pandemic and its socioeconomic and psychological impacts. A systematic review was performed to investigate the literature on the mental health needs of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) in India. The focus is on the prevalence, nature, and sociocultural factors of the epidemic in India. A conceptual framework is offered and the findings of this study are presented across three major domains: (a) prevalence of mental health disorders among the HIV-infected population; (b) mental health needs of PLHA; and (c) gaps in policies and programs addressing these issues. Experiences of HIV stigma and discrimination are also noted in this population. We conclude with implications for future research, interventions, and public policy.
authors.affiliation: Center for Health and Social Sciences, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, School of Health Systems Studies, Mumbai, India. dshankar@tiss.edu
authors.forename: Shankar
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Das
authors.forename: George S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Leibowitz
mesh_terms: D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D006291:Health Policy; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand / Q000191:economics; D006801:Humans; D007194:India / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000523:psychology; D015995:Prevalence; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013240:Stereotyping