Psychiatric Disorders and Drug Use Among Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Infected Adults in the United States

Abstract

PSYCHIATRIC AND substance abuse disorders among people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections may impair quality of life,^1,2 adversely affect the need for and use of health services,³ impact health outcomes,^4,5 and compromise adherence with complicated medication regimens.⁶ Psychiatric and substance abuse disorders may also be associated with unsafe sexual and needle-sharing behaviors that increase the likelihood of HIV transmission.^7-10 In addition, psychiatric and drug-use disorders produce substantial social burden^11,12 and can increase health care costs.^13-16 Population-based estimates of the prevalence of these disorders among people with HIV and factors associated with them are important for the development of policies and programs that will enhance access to appropriate care, increase individual well-being, and reduce the social and economic costs of care.