Psychiatric Consequences of Aids: An Overview

Abstract

As the AIDS epidemic has unfolded, a growing number of psychiatric consequences have been manifested. Based on his experiences as a researcher, clinician, and public health advisor, the author presents a number of conceptual models to assist in our understanding of the psychological, social and political consequences of AIDS, fear of AIDS, and infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). These include a structural model for AIDS related behavioral change, a psychosocial model of the various types of social response, a biological model, and an integrated model for psychiatry's role in promoting positive social change which will control the spread of disease and fear. The author concludes that the magnitude of the psychiatric challenges of AIDS and the potential “holocaust” outcome if we fail to properly address that challenge necessitate the active mobilization of the mental health professions.