Psychiatric diagnosis before serological testing for the human immunodeficiency virus

To identify the diagnostic characteristics and counseling needs of individuals at risk for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), standardized DSM-III-R diagnoses were given to 207 physically asymptomatic adults when they sought serological testing for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The subjects had high lifetime rates of mood disorders. Even after the 20 subjects with intravenous drug use as a risk factor were eliminated, lifetime rates of nonalcohol substance dependence were also high. These findings suggest that even before they are notified of HIV test results, many individuals at perceived risk for AIDS may be vulnerable to future depression and nonintravenous drug abuse.