Social and Psychological Complexity Among Adolescents Living with HIV in Targeted Treatment Health Facilities in Kwara State, Nigeria – A Qualitative Study

Background There is growing concern about the rising prevalence of HIV infection among adolescents and young people worldwide and the various challenges that accompany living with HIV among this population. This study investigated the social and psychological complexities of adolescents living with HIV in selected treatment health facilities in Kwara State, Nigeria. Methods Study adopted qualitative data collection method with six focus group discussions (FGDs) conducted across three health facilities, three sessions each for both males and females. Discussions were conducted in English and Yoruba languages, audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. Content analysis was performed using MAXQDA Analytic Pro 2020. Results A total of 44 participants, comprising 24 males and 20 females aged 10 to 19, participated in the FGDs. More than ninety percent of the adolescents had not disclosed their HIV status to anyone beyond the health care providers, their parents/caregivers, and a few immediate family members. Keeping their HIV status private helped mitigate stigma and discrimination. Common immediate reactions to status disclosure to the adolescents included sadness, hopelessness, and bitterness. However, Operation Triple Zero program, which offered peer-to-peer learning and effective mental health services has been very effective and helpful. Also, sexual risk behavior is still high among sexually active adolescents despite their HIV-positive status. Conclusion Adolescents living with HIV face numerous social and psychological challenges, including sadness about their HIV-positive status. This exposes them to various mental health disorders. However, Operation Triple Zero has been acknowledged as the most effective platform for meeting their psychosocial needs.