Many studies have assessed the relationship between work and mental health. But while therapists can speak of challenges HIV-positive people face with the prospect of returning to work, there is scant scientific research on the subject. This new study, funded by the Emory Medical Care Foundation, is recruiting 200 patients being treated for HIV at the Grady Infectious Disease Clinic. The researchers hope to establish what issues these people face, especially in patients receiving disability payments. The next step will be to use that information to design programs to help HIV-positive people attempting to return to work.
Many people identify their role as a worker as an important source of worth and self-esteem.
Anecdotal evidence has shown that many people with HIV who quit their jobs and go on disability suffer from boredom and depression. But for people with HIV, returning to work is often frightening. But it takes a lot of courage and stamina to take that initial step, especially not knowing how their immune systems will hold up. It doesn't always work out. That can be devastating.