Depression among people living with HIV at a district hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Background:  Depression is a debilitating condition worldwide and a major contributor to the overall global burden of disease. The prevalence of depression is estimated to be higher in people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) compared to the general population, with disease related complications increasing when mental health problems remain untreated. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of depression among PLWHA who attend a district hospital ART clinic in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa (SA).

Methods:  Using strict systematic sampling, a descriptive cross-sectional study was employed with 121 adult outpatients attending an antiretroviral clinic at a district hospital in KZN, SA. Their biographical and clinical characteristics were obtained through a questionnaire and medical records, while depression was evaluated using the PHQ-9 scale. The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results:  A total of 121 participants were recruited for this study. The prevalence of depression was 19.8% and significantly associated with a poor support system (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.60, p = 0.010). Female patients were more likely to have depressive symptoms than males (aOR = 0.73; confidence interval: 0.28-1.90) although this was not statistically significant. Age, marital status and viral load were not contributors to depression.

Conclusion:  Routine screening for depression among PLWHA at primary health care (PHC) level may improve detection rates, earlier treatment and overall health outcomes.Contribution: The results emphasise the need for patient-centeredness and holistic care that involves addressing mental health for PLWHA, given that HIV is a lifelong condition.