Effectiveness of Psychoeducational Intervention in Peer Support Groups on Quality of Life Among Patients with HIV: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Assessing the quality of life of people living with HIV (PLWH) is essential for evaluating treatment outcomes and overall well-being. Various strategies have been implemented to improve the quality of life among PLWH. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a psychoeducational intervention delivered through a peer support group in improving the quality of life of PLWH. Methods: This study employed a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) design conducted over a three-month period. A total of 50 participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group using simple random sampling. The control group received standard care, including adherence counseling and monthly health check-ups. Quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-HIV BREF questionnaire. The Wilcoxon test was used to analyze differences between the two groups. Results: Overall, quality of life improved significantly in the intervention group compared with the control group. The psychoeducational intervention delivered through the peer support group significantly improved the physical health and social relationship domains of quality of life. The largest effect was observed in the social relationship domain, with an effect size of 0.46, while the intervention produced an overall quality-of-life effect size of 0.20. Conclusion: Psychoeducational intervention delivered through a peer support group improved the physical health and social relationship domains of quality of life among PLWH. The intervention enhanced participants' understanding of HIV, strengthened coping mechanisms, and reduced HIV-related stigma and psychological stress experienced by people living with HIV.