Professionally Moderated, Psychoeducational, Web-Based Support for Women Living with HIV: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Abstract Women living with HIV (WLWH) face stress and stigma due to their HIV status, and web-based support groups may provide a beneficial means for connection and education. This paper presents an exploratory study examining the feasibility and potential benefits of a professionally moderated, psychoeducational, web-based support group for WLWH. Ten women participated and the average number of weekly posts was 13.38. Active participants were more likely to be White and have a history of suicidality/self-harm. Findings suggest that future implementations may lead to improvements in depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic growth. Results substantiate prior research and provide a foundation for future interventions.