HIV and Mental Health
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What is HIV?
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV can be transmitted during sexual intercourse, by sharing syringes, or during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
Without medication, HIV can weaken the immune system and increase a person’s chances of having other infections and diseases. With effective medication, people with HIV can lead long, healthy lives.
Where can I learn more about HIV and mental health?
Science updates
NIMH news about HIV and mental health, including press releases and highlights on the latest research findings.
Why is NIMH studying HIV and mental health?
People with HIV have a higher chance of developing mood, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. People may feel sadness or grief after acquiring HIV. They may also experience stress related to living with HIV or exposure to discrimination and social stigma.
In addition, HIV and other infections can affect the brain and nervous system. Some HIV medications may cause symptoms of depression, anxiety, and sleeplessness and may make some mental health issues worse.
Having a mental disorder may make HIV prevention and treatment more challenging for some people. Identifying effective ways to support the mental health of people with HIV can help improve HIV treatment and overall patient well-being.
How is NIMH research addressing this critical topic?
NIMH funds and conducts research to help reduce HIV transmission globally and improve the quality of life for people with HIV. We’re supporting studies to understand how HIV affects the brain and how to support people’s mental health to improve HIV prevention and treatment. Researchers are also looking at ways to increase access to mental health treatments in real-world settings.
Additionally, NIMH supports behavioral research aimed at preventing HIV and improving the health and well-being of people with HIV. We also fund research on structural and social factors to improve treatment and access to care.
NIMH is one of several NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices that support data-driven research aimed at understanding, treating, and ultimately curing HIV. This includes work to develop new data tools and techniques that may make it easier for people to access HIV testing services, receive comprehensive HIV treatment and care, and stick with their medication plans.
Explore clinical trials about HIV and mental health
Clinical trials are research studies that look at new ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. To learn more or find a study, visit:
- Clinical Trials – Information for Participants: Answers to common questions about clinical trials, including why people might take part in a clinical trial and what they can expect
- Clinicaltrials.gov: Current Studies on HIV and Mental Health : List of clinical trials funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) being conducted across the country
- NIMH HIV and Mental Health Studies for Adults: List of studies being conducted on the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD
Find help and support
Learn how to find help for yourself or someone else. You can also find support and locate mental health services in your area on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website.
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org . In life-threatening situations, call 911.
Additional federal resources
- HIV (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): Information about HIV, testing, prevention, and treatment and additional resources for the public, health care providers, and public health partners
- HIV Basics (HIV.gov): Information about HIV, prevention, testing, starting and staying in HIV care, and living well with HIV
- HIV/AIDS (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIAID): Information about HIV/AIDS and NIAID-supported research on HIV/AIDS
- Mental Health and HIV (HIV.gov): Information about HIV and mental health, talking to your health care provider, mental health providers and programs, and ways to find help and services
- Neurological Complications of HIV (National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke): Information about neurological complications of HIV, research updates, and clinical trials
Last Reviewed: December 2024