The Relationship Between Social Support, ARV Adherence, and Depression Levels Among PLWHA in Kupang City
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Steven Simplisius Elim(1*)
Fakultas Kedokteran Kedokteran Hewan
(*) Corresponding Author
Abstract
Introduction : Depression consistently tends to be experienced by people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) at a rate of two to four times higher than the normal population. Two factors are social support and poor therapy compliance.
Objectives: To analyse the relationship between social support and ARV therapy adherence with the level of depression in PLWHA in Kupang.
Methods: This study employed an observational analytical research design with a cross-sectional approach involving PLWHA. Data were collected using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Oslo Social Support Scale (OSSS-3), and The Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS-5) questionnaires. Sampling was conducted using a non-probability snowball sampling technique, resulting in a total of 98 respondents. This study was analysed univariately and bivariately using the Somer's D test.
Results: The bivariate analysis results between social support and depression level had a p-value of 0.006 (p<0.05). The bivariate analysis results between ARV therapy adherence level and the level of depression had a p-value of 0.097 (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Social support significantly affects depression levels in PLWHA in Kupang, while ARV therapy adherence shows no significant relationship with their depression levels.
Keywords: Social Support, ARV Therapy Adherence, Depression
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