It’s ironic that HIV treatment can be astoundingly effective, but sticking with the treatment regimen — adherence — can be so hard. A new sturdy, however, confirms that simple social support from family and friends can help in achieving treatment success.
HIV treatment’s goal is to control virus reproduction; a very low viral level can slow, maybe even stop, HIV disease from progressing. However, to achieve their goal. HIVers must be near perfect — 95% or better — about taking their meds: every dose, on time, every day for months or years.
Already, patients with good professional support are shown as more likely to succeed. New research from the University of Washington, though, demonstrates that the support doesn’t have to be the professional type: Even the simple, but focused, support of friends and family can be important to adherence success.
What can we, as a poz person’s loved ones, do to help? The study identified several typical means that can happen in everyday interaction:
Make it a point to ask, every day, “Have you taken your pills today?”
Support self-efficacy. Encourage the person to do things for himself/herself, including learning to do something new or finding new resources.
Listen! Let them know that you really do hear and sympathize. (Constant complaining about negative circumstances, however, is not a good coping technique.)
Offer ideas that might make taking the medications easier. Don’t nag, but your suggestion might be something the individual hasn’t considered.
Encourage the pursuit of spiritual resources and avenues. Inner strength, whether gained through prayer, church participation, ritual, or simple meditation can help.
(For details, see the journal AIDS, Patient Care and STDs 2002; 16(9):431-439; P. Frick et al.)
This article appears in April 18 • 2003.