Stability of Anxiety and Depression in a National Sample of Adults With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Abstract

We examined the stability of anxiety and depression in a national sample of patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) using data from the HIV Cost and Services Utilization Study. We also investigated risk factors for developing new cases of anxiety and depression. Analyses were conducted using multiple logistic regressions to control for key demographic and clinical factors. Our results showed a general stability of these psychiatric conditions across 6 months, with no dramatic increase in new cases. Overall prevalence declined over time, but a subgroup of patients, particularly those with major depression, evidenced persistent psychopathology. Having a high baseline HIV symptom count and a growing number of HIV symptoms significantly increased the likelihood of anxiety and depression persisting to follow-up and of developing new such cases. Our findings indicate that living with HIV does not necessarily lead to increased psychiatric distress but that palliation of HIV symptoms is paramount to patients’ mental health.