A qualitative study of experiences of receiving and living with an HIV diagnosis in Honduras

Background In Honduras, HIV-related stigma and structural vulnerability continue to represent significant barriers for people living with HIV, despite advances in antiretroviral therapy (ART). This study explored the lived experiences of receiving an HIV diagnosis and living with this condition among Honduran adults. Methods Twenty-seven face-to-face semi-structured interviews (20–60 min) were conducted with people living with HIV recruited from public healthcare services in Tegucigalpa ( n = 14) and Yoro department ( n = 13) between February and April 2024 (age range: 23–72 years; 14 men and 13 women). We analyzed the data using a hybrid inductive-deductive thematic analysis approach. Results Five interrelated themes were developed: (1) diagnosis as an existential rupture, marked by emotional collapse, disrupted identity, and a collapsed future; (2) the weight of HIV stigma, anticipated, enacted, and internalized; (3) despair as an existential threshold, including suicidal ideation and treatment abandonment; (4) the body as evidence, through weakness, visible signs, and responsibility; and (5) reconstructing continuity through support, trust in healthcare, spirituality, dignity, and acceptance. Conclusions The findings indicate that living with HIV in Honduras is not limited to the management of a chronic condition but involves an ongoing negotiation of identity, dignity, visibility, and hope. These results highlight the importance of maintaining confidentiality within healthcare services, recognizing the fundamental role of pre- and post-diagnosis psychological support, and developing psychosocial interventions to reduce stigma, as well as strategies to strengthen family and social support. Clinical trial number Not applicable.