Mental health and substance use in HIV-infected adolescents

Abstract

Purpose of review: Adolescents with HIV include both those infected perinatally and behaviourally. This population is confronted by normative challenges and HIV stressors as they move towards becoming increasingly independent adults. This review focuses on mental health and substance use in adolescents with HIV. These are important issues in their own right as well as having implications for antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and HIV management.

Recent findings: Sixteen articles, published from 1 January 2016 to 1 September 2017, were included from 13 distinct studies, mostly from the United States and Africa. Cross-sectional designs predominated. There was only one intervention study. There was evidence of mental health and substance use difficulties, although not at a higher level than comparison groups. Consistent associations were found between ART nonadherence and both mental health difficulties and substance use; environmental stressors and mental health difficulties.

Summary: Adolescents with HIV display considerable resilience. There is a need, however, for interventions for mental health difficulties and substance use, and for ART adherence interventions to consider these issues. Studies on mental health and substance use should cover a wider range of regions. Mitigating the impact and reducing exposure to environmental stressors is a priority.