Depressive symptoms, HIV disclosure, and HIV-related stigma among migrant workers living with HIV in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Currently migrant workers living with HIV (MWLHIV) in Thailand have access to antiretroviral treatment. We determined the frequency of depressive symptoms, HIV disclosure, and HIV-related stigma in this population. The cross-sectional study was conducted at 12 HIV clinics in community hospitals in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Data were collected from MWLHIV through face-to-face interviews. A 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and a Thai-validated HIV/AIDS stigma scales were used. A total of 316 MWLHIV participated; their median age was 39 years and 65% were female. Sixty (19%) had depressive symptoms, with higher frequency of depression in females (22.4% vs.12.6%, respectively; p = .033). The overall HIV disclosure rate was 69.9%. Females were more likely than males to disclose HIV status to someone outside the clinic (72.2% vs. 65.8%, respectively; p = .234). The most prevalent type of HIV-related stigma was internalized, followed by felt stigma. Enacted stigma had the lowest prevalence. Multiple linear regression revealed that being female (beta = 0.125, p = .029), enacted stigma (beta = 0.152, p = .011) and felt stigma (beta = 0.248, p < .001) were significantly associated with depressive scores. To ensure favorable HIV treatment outcomes, individual counseling, psychosocial support, and mental health screening should be integrated into HIV services.

Automated summary

This study examined the frequency of depressive symptoms, HIV disclosure, and HIV-related stigma among migrant workers living with HIV (MWLHIV) in Thailand. The results showed that a significant proportion of MWLHIV experienced depressive symptoms, with higher rates observed in females. HIV disclosure was relatively high, with more females disclosing their status. Internalized and felt stigma were the most prevalent forms, while enacted stigma was less common. Being female and experiencing stigma were associated with higher levels of depression. It is important to integrate individual counseling, psychosocial support, and mental health screening into HIV services to improve treatment outcomes.