Mental Health Governs Every Step of the HIV Journey

Mental health is not a sidebar but rather governs every step of the HIV journey. According to Canadian Conference on HIV/AIDS Research (CAHR) 2026 conference speaker Dr. Adriana Carvalhal: “Depression is not peripheral to HIV care. It affects retention (continuity of care), virologic outcomes and survival/ mortality.”  Depression is the strongest modifiable predictor of non-adherence, so it is advantageous to recognize it, acknowledge it, and treat it when it presents. Philip Aziz Centre for Hospice Care clients with HIV/AIDS experience a safe space – family, friends, community and connection to resources during crisis times, due to, or exacerbated by HIV/AIDS. During times of heightened and short-term crisis, individuals receive one-on-one counselling, supports, coaching, advocacy, hospital bed-side visits, and or practical resources.

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