Resilience in people living with HIV: An integrative literature review

Background: People living with HIV (PLHIV) face significant psychosocial adversities that can compromise their well-being. Resilience has been investigated as a key process in fostering positive adaptation to these challenges. Aim: To conduct an integrative literature review on resilience in PLHIV, identifying the conceptual frameworks used, risk and protective factors, and psychosocial adjustment indicators examined. Method: A comprehensive search was performed in the PUBMED, PsycINFO, SciELO, LILACS, PePSIC, and Index Psi databases for articles published between 2014 and 2023. Empirical studies with an explicit focus on resilience in the context of HIV were included. Results: Thirty-three studies were analyzed. Main risk factors identified included stigma in its various forms, structural inequalities, mental health disorders, and barriers to care. Protective factors included social support, religiosity, active coping strategies, access to health services, and awareness of rights. Resilience was associated with improved mental health, enhanced quality of life, and greater adherence to treatment. Conclusions: Resilience in PLHIV is a dynamic and context-sensitive process, influenced by multiple ecological levels. Understanding its mechanisms is essential for designing clinical interventions and public health policies that promote well-being and equity.