A Pilot Theory–Based Intervention to Improve Resilience, Psychosocial Well-Being, and Quality of Life Among People Living With HIV in Rural China

Abstract

This pilot study aimed at fostering resilience among people living with HIV and improving the HIV-negative participants’ acceptance of people living with HIV. A group of 75 people living with HIV who were former blood/plasma donors and 36 HIV-negative fellow villagers in rural China participated in the intervention. The 8 sessions lasted for 4 months and were facilitated by trained local family-planning officers. Efficacy of the intervention was assessed using a pre- and postprogram study design; measurements were made at baseline, at completion, and 3 months afterward completion. The authors found that the HIV-positive participants increased their levels of resilience, social support, and quality of life and that they reported fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress at the completion of the intervention; most of these changes were sustained at the 3-month follow-up. Such participants also reported subjective improvements on problem-solving skills, self-confidence, and a feeling of being cared for by others. In addition, the HIV-negative participants’ discriminatory attitudes toward people living with HIV were reduced after completing the intervention. The majority of the participants was satisfied with the intervention and would recommend it to others. The train-the-trainer approach was used effectively. Positive effects of the intervention have been revealed and future randomized controlled studies are warranted.

Acknowledgments

Xiaonan Yu and Joseph T. F. Lau contributed equally to the study in terms of study design, intervention development, liaison, supervision and manuscript writing. Winnie W. S. Mak and Jianxin Zhang participated in the design of the intervention and commented on the manuscript. Yimin Cheng and Yanhong Lv coordinated and monitored the field work and commented on the manuscript.