Illness-related factors, stress and coping strategies in relation to psychological distress in HIV-infected persons in Hong Kong

Abstract

This study examined the relationships among illness-related factors, stress, coping strategies and psychological distress in HIV-infected persons in Hong Kong (N=118). Multiple regression analyses were used to examine the models of psychological distress as a function of demographic factors, illness-related factors, psychosocial stressors and coping. Results showed that positive thinking was inversely related to psychological distress and avoidance was associated with higher level of anxiety. However, the use of problem solving was found to be inversely related to anxiety. Results are discussed in the context of Chinese culture and the service in Hong Kong.

Acknowledgments

The study was supported by Grant MSS077 of the AIDS Trust Fund. The authors would like to express gratitude to Ms. Y. Y. Tsui and Ms. Hester Leung for their assistance in data collection and data processing.