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The effects of depression, stressful life events, social support, and coping on the progression of HIV infection

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Abstract

This article reviews recent findings concerning the role of psychosocial factors on the progression of HIV. Specifically, we examine the role of depression, stressful life events, social support, and coping on changes in CD4 T-lymphocytes and other indicators of HIV disease progression. Studies have yielded important evidence that depression, stressful life events, low social support, and denial coping may have a detrimental impact on HIV disease course. Delineating the role of psychosocial factors on HIV disease progression may aid in the development of new interventions for this devastating disease.

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  1. Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, CB #7160, 27599-7160, Chapel Hill, NC, USA

    Jane Leserman PhD

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Leserman, J. The effects of depression, stressful life events, social support, and coping on the progression of HIV infection. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2, 495–502 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-000-0008-4

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