Annexure III.b Anxiety and depression ANXIETY and DEPRESSION
Anxiety and depression are part of an HIV positive person's life, from the moment they come to know their status, with fears of illness and ultimately death. Symptoms of anxiety: l Lack of appetite l Sweating l Difficulty in sleeping, concentration l Feeling irritable and nervous l Feeling short of breath l Headaches l Feeling that the heart is pounding l Feeling faint, worried and out of control
Episodes of anxiety and depression may come and go or become so intense that the person contemplates suicide or takes to drugs or alcohol, which in turn leads to a rapid deterioration in their health. What should be done? l Encouraged to vent feelings and share thoughts. l Provided constant support and engaged in various activities. l Introduced to PLHA who can share their experiences and talk about living positively and their strategies to cope with anxiety and depression. When to seek help? u If the person's ability to take care of himself/herself and eat and sleep is compromised. u If there is the danger of the person committing suicide.
Symptoms of depression: l A sense of hopelessness l Feeling tired and without energy l Inability to find pleasure in anything l Everything appears to be a chore l Irritation towards people around l Eating too much or loss of appetite l Waking up early or having trouble going to sleep at night
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Positive Caregiving for Children Living with HIV
Module 3 – Child Care
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