Psychosocial and economic aspects of HIV/AIDS and counselling of caretakers of HIV-infected children in Uganda

The knowledge that her child is infected puts a heavy emotional burden on a mother. Despair or depression lead to difficulties in reacting to the options and advice given by health workers. The compliance of the mother also is largely dependent on her acceptance of the HIV status of the child. Additionally, the belief that the child might die any moment may cause her not to take proper care of the child anymore. Worries of the caretakers are frequently related to poverty. Counselling of caretakers at the health centre could and should be an important element in care for HIV-infected children. Psychological and material support and advice concerning HIV infection, proper childcare and material problems may empower the caretakers. This may lead to a better follow-up of the child by health care workers and to increased compliance of and better care by the caretaker, which will improve life and survival of an infected child.