Mental Health Predictors of Non-Adherence

Psychosocial interventions improved both mental health and ART adherence in a 2018 meta-analysis. Poor mental health can undermine ART adherence by impairing cognition, motivation, and daily routines. Psychological distress is linked to substance use, social withdrawal, and reduced engagement with healthcare services. HIV-related stigma can reduce self-efficacy for medication taking and worsen psychological vulnerability. Periods of active mental illness or substance use can lead patients to miss appointments and stop taking medication. Mental health is presented as a modifiable predictor of ART adherence with clinical value.