SUAB0402 | PREVALENCE OF MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV ON ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY IN MASHONALAND CENTRAL, ZIMBABWE

Heaven Tapiwa Muchinako, Bernard Madzima, Edgar Muzulu, Amon Mpofu, Freema Dube, Amos Milanzi, Lizzie Zinyemba, Hellen Kabaya, Kisto Chikurira, Liveson Chamboko, Yolanda Tapfumaneyi, Masimba Masiye | National AIDS Council of Zimbabwe, Bindura, Zimbabwe

Mental health conditions significantly affect the health outcomes of People Living with HIV (PLHIV), especially those on antiretroviral therapy (ART). In Zimbabwe’s Mashonaland Central Province, where the HIV prevalence is 9.4%, there is insufficient data regarding the mental health challenges encountered by people living with HIV (PLHIV). The psychological toll, often stemming from stigma, economic hardship, and social isolation, threatens ART adherence and overall well-being. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of mental health conditions and associated risk factors among PLHIV on ART in the province. An analytical cross-sectional study employing mixed methods was conducted. Researchers sampled a total of 354 PLHIV aged ≥15 years who had been on ART for at least six months using multistage and simple random techniques across 24 facilities. Quantitative data were collected using the PHQ-9 screening tool and an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Qualitative data were obtained via 14 focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Ethical clearance was obtained and confidentiality maintained throughout. The prevalence of common mental disorders (CMD) was 42.9%, with mild depression (21.5%), moderate (14.4%), and severe depression (7%). CMD was more prevalent among women (64.4%), those aged 35–44 (50.5%), individuals with no formal education (52.4%), and adherents to African traditional religion (72.2%). Key risk factors included stigma (CMD prevalence 62.2%), discrimination (67.7%), lack of family support (70.4%), and poor ART adherence. Alcohol use, especially frequent consumption, was associated with higher CMD prevalence. Interestingly, CMD rates were lower among those who took part in Differentiated Service Delivery (DSD) models. The study confirms a high burden of mental health conditions among PLHIV on ART in Mashonaland Central. Social, psychological, and structural factors, particularly stigma, discrimination, and inadequate support systems, intricately link to mental health challenges. These challenges directly affect treatment outcomes and quality of life. Mental health services should be integrated into HIV care through routine screening and support in ART clinics. Strengthening psychosocial support, expanding DSD models to include mental health interventions, and addressing stigma through community engagement are critical. Further research is needed on age-specific and gendered interventions, as well as longitudinal outcomes of mental health integration in HIV care.