Ezeanolue EE, Iheanacho T, Adedeji IA, et al.
Nigeria has a large population of people living with HIV, and untreated comorbid mental disorders remain a critical but modifiable barrier to optimal HIV treatment outcomes. This study used a nominal group technique, informed by the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment framework, among attendees at the Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance's 2019 conference to identify opportunities and challenges for integrating mental health care into existing HIV programs. Opportunities identified included building on existing HIV care infrastructure and workforce and leveraging community, traditional, and faith-based structures, while challenges included the double burden of HIV and mental health stigma, policy and structural gaps, limited mental health workforce, and a lack of data for planning. The authors conclude that integrating mental health treatment into HIV services is feasible but will require addressing stigma, policy, and research gaps.
View Full Paper on BMC Health Services Research