The Importance of Adhering to Your Treatment Regimen en español
Are there any special challenges?
Ever since it became clear that HIV treatment success is highly dependent on adherence, scientists have been try to identify adherence challenges many HIV-positive people face. It turns out that adherence is a bit of an equal-opportunity issue, with struggles affecting people regardless of gender, race, economic status and many other characteristics.
There are three special situations that consistently have been found to affect adherence:
Mood Matters. A number of studies have found that people who are depressed have a harder time adhering to HIV drug regimens than people who are not depressed. Fortunately, there are many available treatments for depression, from medication to talk therapy involving one-on-one and group counseling. The symptoms of depression can vary a great deal and involve more than just feeling very sad. Some symptoms—such as body aches, sleep problems and bouts of irritation—may surprise you. See our lesson on depression, and if you suspect you are depressed, talk to your health care provider.
Cutting Chaos. The amount of chaos in your life, and the stress it places on you, can generate adherence problems. Chaos can include more than just an unpredictable and overwhelming schedule of activities. It can also include how safe and organized your home is, as well as money-management problems. Some ASOs have services and classes to help you lower stress and chaos in your life. Your case manager or health care provider may have other referrals.
Taking Care. Being the primary caregiver for children or other adults who are ill or disabled can place a huge strain on anyone. The needs and concerns of the people you're caring for can be overwhelming and become your primary focus. It's important to remember that your health must come first; you can't care for others if you become unwell. Some health insurance plans, ASOs and city and county governments have no- and low-cost assistance for people who are caregivers for others.
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