Psychological well-being and social support in patients with HIV/AIDS in south-east Iran

Abstract

Background: Empirical studies show social and psychological supports are pivotal for maintaining physical, psychological, and social health in patients living with HIV/AIDS. Objectives: The present study aimed at evaluating social and psychological support and the relationship between these two factors among HIV/AIDS patients receiving services form health centers of Zahedan province, south eastern Iran. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted. HIV/AIDS patients, who received services from health care facilities of Zahedan University of Medical Sciences were recruited in the study. Psychological well-being and social support were assessed using the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-Being and medical outcomes study Social Support Scale (MOS-SSS) questionnaires, respectively. Multivariable linear regression analysis using backward stepwise method was conducted to determine factors related to psychological health and social support. Results: A total 110 patients aged over 16 years old (83 males) were included in the study. Unsafe injecting drug use was the major HIV transmission route (59.1%). Mean psychological health score was significantly higher in males compared to females (P = 0.048). Also, a gender difference was observed for mean social support score, although it was non-significant. The regression analysis showed that females versus males and AIDS patients versus HIV infected patients had lower score of psychological well-being, moreover, social support positively and independently related to the score of psychological well-being (β = -0.505; 95% confidence interval: 0.360 to 0.649). Conclusions: The findings suggest that female patients, those living in the AIDS stage, and those with poor social support are more vulnerable to having lower level of psychological well-being. Harm reduction programs should be reinforced in such groups.