DEPRESSION AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG RETROVIRAL-POSITIVE PATIENTS RECEIVING CARE IN A TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN SOUTHERN NIGERIA

Introduction: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a global health concern with repercussions beyond its physical impact, extending to mental well-being. Approximately 280 million people wi th HIV experience depression, with 3.63 million residing in sub-Saharan Africa. This research investigated the relationship between HIV infection and depression among patients receiving care at the antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital. Methods: Conducted as a cross-sectional hospital-based study, systematic sampling was employed to recruit 404 confirmed HIV-positive participants receiving ART in the last six months, after informed consent was obtained. The PHQ-9 questionnaire was administered to assess depression, and data analysis utilized SPSS version 25. Pearson’s Chi-square tested associations at a significance level of p<0.05 with a 95% confidence interval. Results: Participants, averaging 41.8 ± 10.1 years, were mostly females (n=267, 66.1%). The Tenofovir/Lamivudine/Dolutegravir combination was the predominant regimen received by the participants (n=374, 92.6%), with 80.7% (n=326) being on HAART for 0-9 years, and 89.9% (n=363) having coexisting conditions. Depression prevalence was 63.9% (n=258), with the majority having mild depression (n=252, 62.4%), and most participants had no social support (n=399, 98.8%). A significant association existed between depression and a family history of depression (p=0.015). Conclusion: This study reveals a notable occurrence of depression among the participants, predominantly mild, with a significant link to a family history of depression. Implementing a comprehensive psychotherapy intervention at our study centre could enhance patient care, providing a centralized solution for addressing these mental health concerns early and promptly.