Perceived social support and associated factors in people living with HIV in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Social support is a well-known determinant of health outcomes. This study examined the relationship between social support, mental health, and antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence in people living with HIV (PLWH). We conducted a cross-sectional study at 4 community hospitals in Thailand. The inclusion criteria were: 1) age ≥ 18 years, 2) living with HIV and receiving ART. The study tools included the Multifactor Assessment of Perceived Social Support (MAPSS), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7). Of the 404 PLWH enrolled, median age 46.0 years (IQR 35.5-55.8); 200 (50%) females. Fourteen (3.5%) reported low, 71(17.6%) medium, and 319(79%) high perceived social support. Depressive (PHQ-9 score ≥5) and anxiety symptoms (GAD-7 score ≥5) were seen in 70 (17.3%) and 59 (14.6%), respectively. Compared to older age groups, higher percentage of young PLWH (age < 30 years) had depression and anxiety symptoms (22% vs. 8.5% and 4.9%, p = 0.001). Suboptimal ART adherence (< 95%) was observed in 122 (30.2%). HIV duration <5 years, depressive symptoms, and suboptimal ART adherence were associated with low/medium perceived social support in multivariable logistic regression analysis. In summary, young and recently diagnosed PLWH may need more social support to ensure favorable health outcomes.