Invited commentary: Prevailing over acquired immune deficiency syndrome and depressive symptoms

Abstract

The causal and noncausal associations that account for linkages between depressive symptoms and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome are complex and not completely understood. Depression is a common mental health condition that affects approximately 20%-30% of persons receiving HIV medical care. Those suffering from depressive symptoms may be more apt to abuse alcohol or other substances and to have difficulties with adherence to treatment regimens over long periods of time. Persons living with HIV who are effectively treated for their depression are more likely to adhere to antiretroviral therapy over time and to enjoy better health and improved quality of life. The article by Wada et al. in this issue of the Journal (Am J Epidemiol. 2013;177(2):116-125) provides an important look at the long-term survival experiences of men and women who participated in 2 major epidemiologic studies of HIV and acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Long-term follow-up studies such as that by Wada et al. highlight not only the mortality experience of vulnerable groups of people but also their profound resiliency and ability to prevail over personal challenges, such as poverty and unemployment, and health conditions, such as HIV and depression.