Researchers from the WIHS (Women's Interagency HIV Study) analyzed reports of internalized stigma around HIV and adherence to HIV medications. For those women who reported suboptimal medication adherence, internalized stigma resulted in a perception of less social support, and more depressive symptoms. This association was significant in racial and ethnic minorities, but not for non-Hispanic white women. Interventions for these women should focus not only on medication adherence but also mental health issues that may influence their medication compliance.
Citation:
Turan B, Smith W, Cohen MH, Wilson TE, Adimora AA, Merenstein D, Adedimeji A, Wentz EL, Foster AG, Metsch L, Tien PC, Weiser SD, Turan JM. Mechanisms for the negative effects of internalized HIV-related stigma on antiretroviral therapy adherence in women: The mediating roles of social isolation and depression. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2016 Jun 1; 72(2): 198–205.
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