Psycho-social challenges faced by people living with HIV during COVID-19 in Kosovo: a qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction The aim of this study was to investigate psycho-social challenges faced by people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) (PLWHA) during COVID-19 in Kosovo. From September 2021 to January 2022, 47 HIV and AIDS patients were enrolled. Material and methods Face-to-face interviews were conducted to examine experiences of PLWHA during COVID-19. Thematic analysis was applied as a method for the analysis of interview transcripts using qualitative data analysis software NVivo 12. Results Psychological experiences of people living with HIV and AIDS during the COVID-19 pandemic were summarized into four main themes: (1) changes in mental health, (2) accessibility of essential health services during the pandemic, (3) non-disclosure of HIV status, and (4) socio-economic well-being of PLWHA during COVID-19. Conclusions Our findings suggest that COVID-19 has further exacerbated mental health issues among people living with HIV and AIDS. There is an urgent need to increase mental health provision for PLWHA. Also, the findings highlight an demanding need for action, particularly in four critical areas, such as to prioritize mental health, improve health and care services for PLWHA, address stigma, and increase socio-economic support.

Keywords

• people living with hiv
• psycho-social challenges
• covid-19
• stigma
• socio-economic well-being