Psychological Well-being and Coping Mechanism among HIVNaive Patients in Nigeria: An Analysis of Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety disorders (DAD) have consistently been established as some of the major mental health outcomes in the HIV/AIDS population. In light of previous research attempts to examine its causes and proffer solutions, however, rates of DAD have remained consistently high, especially in HIV populations. This study therefore examined the prevalence of depression, anxiety and coping strategies among HIV naïve patients in Abuja. The research design was a descriptive cross-sectional survey that utilized multistage sampling technique to recruit 1022 HIV naïve patients. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ), generalized anxiety scale (GAD-7) and developed instruments for coping were used to assess depression, anxiety and coping strategies respectively. The research instrument was administered to well-consented and eligible participants. Three objectives, which were later transformed into hypotheses, examined the prevalence of depression, anxiety and coping strategies. Data was analyzed using descriptive analysis, Chi-square and logistic regression. Results indicated that the prevalence of depression was 65.1%, 18.8%, 10.8% and 5.3% for minimal, mild, moderate and severe depression respectively. Similarly, the prevalence of anxiety was 69.5%, 20.6%, 7.6% and 2.3% for minimal, mild, moderate and severe anxiety respectively. Further results revealed that sex is significantly associated with depression and anxiety X2 = 21.597, df= 4, p<.000; X2 = 12.480, df= 4, p<.05. There was also a statistically significant difference in coping between patients with mild depression and severe depression (OR. 2.673 to 29.949). Also, there was a statistically significant difference in coping between patients with mild and severe anxiety (OR, 2.673 to 29.949). Governmental and Non-governmental organizations should take cognizance of this prevalence and evolve measure to reduce the rate of these problems among HIV naïve patients in Abuja and beyond.