"I Want to Live: A Qualitative Investigation of Barriers and Facilitators to ART Adherence & Mental Health Maintenance in People With HIV".

ObjectiveMental health symptoms hinder engagement in antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among persons with HIV (PWH). Existing information on barriers and facilitators to mental health treatment in PWH is limited. This qualitative study explored barriers and facilitators to mental health treatment and ART adherence in PWH.MethodsPWH (n = 16) and health professionals (N = 6) completed semi-structured interviews.ResultsThree themes describe how and why barriers to care intersected: (1) health systems were not equipped to accommodate the unique needs of people with HIV who needed mental health treatment; (2) complex mental health challenges intersected with other barriers; (3) a stable home base and community were critical to health but difficult to maintain.ConclusionSeveral participants suggested integrating mental health and HIV care.