Anxiety and Social Functioning among People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Pakistan

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Research on HIV/AIDS has highlighted the significance of addressing anxiety and social functioning in individuals living with the disease, particularly in resource-limited settings like Pakistan. A recent study conducted at the Capital University of Science & Technology in Islamabad, Pakistan, examined the impact of anxiety on social functioning in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) compared to HIV-negative individuals. The study found that PLWHA exhibited significantly higher anxiety levels than their HIV-negative counterparts, contributing to impaired social functioning and reduced quality of life.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study, conducted at the Capital University of Science & Technology, involved 200 participants (100 PLWHA, 100 HIV-negative) aged 20-50 years, using convenience sampling.
  • Anxiety was assessed using the Institute for Personality and Ability Testing (IPAT) Anxiety Scale, and social functioning was measured using the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) Scale.
  • PLWHA exhibited significantly higher anxiety levels than HIV-negative individuals, with p < 0.01.
  • The study highlights the critical need for mental health interventions to enhance psychological well-being and social functioning among PLWHA.
  • Addressing HIV-related stigma, strengthening social support networks, and integrating mental health care into HIV treatment programs are essential for improving outcomes.
  • Dr. Ishrat Yousaf, Associate Professor at the Department of Psychology, Capital University of Science & Technology, was a lead author on the study.

Statistics:

  • 200 participants were recruited for the study, with 100 PLWHA and 100 HIV-negative individuals.
  • PLWHA exhibited significantly higher anxiety levels (p < 0.01) than HIV-negative individuals.
  • The study found that anxiety levels were positively correlated with social functioning, suggesting that anxiety may mediate the relationship between HIV infection and social functioning.

Sources:

  • "Anxiety and Social Functioning among People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study" (Nature-Nurture Journal of Psychology, 2025,4(2))
  • NewsRx. Research Data from Capital University of Science & Technology Update Understanding of HIV/AIDS [Anxiety and Social Functioning among People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study]. Mental Health Weekly Digest. October 27, 2025; p 110.