Stigma, Stress and Social Support among Primary Care Givers of People Living with HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Stigma, stress and inadequate social support among primary care givers of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) can affect the mental health of both PLHA and their care givers.

Method: A cross sectional study was conducted at a government hospital, Bangalore district of Karnataka state, India. Thirty samples were collected purposively for the study.

Results: Perceived stigma and perceived stress are high among the primary care givers while perceived social support is adequate. The predictor variables for perceived stress are perceived social support. The predictor variable for perceived social stigma is perceived social support.

Conclusion: This study aims to understand the gravity of stigma and stress of the primary care givers of PLHA through developing the systematic knowledge base and it is critical to health and mental health professionals to be equipped in dealing with the problems of the primary care givers.