HIV among people with mental illness: contributing factors, prevention needs, barriers, and strategies

J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv. 2000 Apr;38(4):14-9. doi: 10.3928/0279-3695-20000401-05.

Abstract

1. Findings suggest that PWMI, including those with serious mental illness, are sexually active although some individuals, including mental health professionals, perceive them to be asexual or not sexually active. 2. PWMI may be particularly susceptible to HIV risk-related behaviors due to poor judgment, limited impulse control, deficits in problem-solving skills, and suicidal intent and self-destructive behavior. 3. Nurses, due to their close interaction with PWMI, are in key positions to document HIV risk-related behaviors and to advocate for integrating HIV risk reduction strategies into the therapeutic milieu.

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / complications*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • HIV Seropositivity / complications*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / complications*
  • Preventive Health Services
  • Psychiatric Nursing
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Behavior / psychology