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Self-care management of anxiety and fear in HIV disease.

Kemppainen JK, Holzemer WL, Nokes K, Eller LS, Corless IB, Bunch EH, Kirksey KM, Goodroad BK, Portillo CJ, Chou FY. Self-care management of anxiety and fear in HIV disease. Journal of The Association of Nurses in AIDS Care. 2003 Mar 1; 14(2):21-9.

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Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to describe the frequency and correlates of self-reported anxiety and fear and the self-care behaviors used to manage these symptoms. Data were collected in a convenience sample (N = 422) of HIV-positive subjects. Demographic and disease-related variables were compared for those who did and did not report anxiety and fear. Anxiety and fear were the most frequently reported symptoms (17.3%, n = 73). There were significant differences on gender, level of education, and the use of antiretroviral medications. Self-care behaviors (n = 212) for anxiety and fear were grouped into seven categories: using activities for distraction = 25%, talking to others = 21%, using alternative/complementary therapies = 18%, taking prescribed medications = 10%, using self-talk = 9%, using substances = 9%, and using avoidance behaviors = 7%. Anxiety and fear are commonly experienced by people with HIV/AIDS. Self-care strategies are imperative in the management of these clinical manifestations.




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