Recovery from depression takes time. Medications for depression can take several weeks to begin to work and may need to be combined with on-going psychotherapy. Not everyone responds to the medications in the same way. Dosing may need to be adjusted. Prescriptions may need to be changed.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by mood swings, from depression to mania.
People with HIV also have a high incidence of anxiety disorders such as panic disorder. It takes more than access to good medical care for persons living with HIV to stay healthy. The causes of depression are still not clear. It may result from an underlying genetic predisposition triggered by stress, or by the side effects of medications, or by viruses like HIV that can affect the brain. If you or someone you know with HIV is depressed, seek help from a health care professional who is experienced in treating persons with both diseases.