Journal Screenshot

International Journal of Academic Research in Accounting, Finance and Management Sciences

Open Access Journal

ISSN: 2225-8329

Mental Health among People Living with HIV: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Najwa Afiqa Roshaizad, Firdaus Mukhtar, Normala Ibrahim, Sindhu Nair Mohan, Nasrudin Subhi

http://dx.doi.org/10.6007/IJARAFMS/v14-i4/24220

Open access

Background: A few studies have reported that mental health among People Living with HIV positive (PLHIV) is an important matter to be discussed. Therefore, there is evidence to support further research into exploration of mental health especially psychological intervention. This study will examine whether a psychological intervention (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) could reduce depression, anxiety, and negative automatic thought in PLHIV. Methods: This proposed research study will adopt a cross-sectional and single-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) design, conducted in two phases. In phase 1, participants will answer questionnaire that cover demographic, anxiety, depression, automatic thought, emotion regulation, stigma, adherence, and social support. Participants with high score in anxiety and depression automatically offered to be phase 2 participants, which is Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT). Anxiety, depression, and automatic thought score will be obtained before, immediately after and at 1-month follow-up after completing CBT. Discussion: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program in reducing anxiety, depression, and negative automatic thoughts among people living with HIV (PLHIV). Additionally, it will examine the prevalence of anxiety and depression as well as the relationships between these variables. If the intervention proves effective, it could serve as a valuable mental health strategy and an alternative treatment option for PLHIV in Malaysia.