PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF SCREENING FOR HUMAN-IMMUNODEFICIENCY-VIRUS

A number of studies have investigated the psychological impact of screening for HIV infection. The results suggest that whereas anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts are common in persons who are concerned about but unaware of their HIV status, serious behavior disturbance, including suicide, appears to be unusual once HIV-positive status has been confirmed. In fact, anxiety and depression may decrease to pretest levels or even lower within weeks of notification of test results. These results were obtained in the context of careful and repeated counseling and support. Concern must still be raised for the psychological well being of individuals who receive no support or counseling.