Standards for psychological support for adults living with HIV
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11.12.2011
We (British Psychological Society, British HIV Association, Medical Foundation for AIDS & Sexual Health) are delighted to publish these standards for psychological support for adults living with HIV, the first time such a document has been produced in the UK. A wide range of service providers across health, social care and community organisations play a crucial role in the provision of psychological support for people living with HIV. These standards, developed through multidisciplinary and multi-sector collaboration, set out a clear framework to guide practice in this complex field.
Psychological health and wellbeing are key components of health and quality of life for everyone. However, despite significant medical advances in HIV treatment, people living with HIV experience significantly higher rates of psychological difficulties than the general population. This has a major impact on quality of life, complicates clinical care, compromises physical health outcomes and heightens the risks of onward HIV transmission. The standards therefore focus on the promotion of mental health and wellbeing for all adults living with HIV, as well as the early detection of psychological difficulties and the provision of appropriate interventions for those who need them.
These standards are in line with the principle of mainstreaming mental health, as set out in No health without mental health, the Governments mental health strategy for England. They represent current good practice which we believe people living with HIV should expect from their care providers. Throughout the standards, the person living with HIV is placed at the centre, whatever their level of need.
The recommendations in this document offer real opportunities for preventing avoidable ill-health and reducing associated costs to the NHS and local authorities. At a time when financial constraints are threatening the continuation of some services that deliver psychological support for people with HIV, these standards provide the rationale for evidence-based investment. They are an essential resource for commissioners of health and social care.
