Stigma and myths surrounding HIV and AIDS
What do we mean when we talk about HIV-related stigma? UNAIDS defines it as 'a process of devaluation of people either living with or associated with HIV and AIDS' (UNAIDS, 2007). Research has shown that HIV-related stigma has damaging consequences on individuals and public health alike. It stops people from accessing health and social care services, hinders their attainment of care and treatment, discourages them from undertaking HIV testing and counselling, deters them from adopting preventative behaviours, and often leads to non-adherence of medication. And when HIV-related stigma is practiced by health care workers, it can also affect the quality of care they provide their patients or clients. Many people in the UK have felt stigmatised as a result of their HIV infection.
Explore the animated image below to view some personal accounts of people who've experienced HIV-related stigma. You will notice that it takes many forms. Sometimes it is direct, such as rejection from partners and family, the refusal of a job or home, or abusive comments and taunts. Other times, it can be less obvious, such as receiving fewer social invitations or finding that friends no longer ring. Some people with HIV self stigmatise and blame themselves for their illness. They withdraw and become isolated, often feeling anxious or depressed, in part because they have a serious long-term illness, but also because of the stigma and discrimination they face for having it.
So, why is HIV seen so differently from other chronic illnesses? Why is there so much stigma surrounding it? Consider these factors:
- HIV and AIDS-related stigma plays into and reinforces existing prejudices about gender, race, sex, and sexuality.
- It is associated with behaviours that may be illegal, such as IV drug use or sex work.
- It is also associated with behaviours that some religious or cultural groups forbid, such as men having sex with men or extramarital sex.
- It involves topics such as sex and sexuality that many people find embarrassing or uncomfortable to talk about.
- Misconceptions, fallacies, myths, and incorrect information about HIV lead to irrational fears regarding transmission.
Health care staff can do much to educate their patients, colleagues, and the public to help counter stigmatism. Here are some suggestions for how this can be achieved:
- Learn the facts, then educate others. People who have accurate information are less likely to stigmatise or display negative attitudes towards people with HIV.
- Act as a role model. Displaying a positive attitude to HIV and those whose values and beliefs may be different than our own influences the perceptions of patients, colleagues, and the public to reduce stigma.
- Assist those with HIV who self stigmatise through education, promotion of self management strategies and encouragement to let go of negative judgments about what it means to be HIV positive.
- Challenge stigma towards people who are HIV positive. Adopt the mantra: "less blame, less shame, less stigma, less HIV" (Lewis, 2011).
Take a moment now to think about your workplace and the attitudes there towards people with HIV infection. Do you see evidence of stigma, either direct or indirect? Are there examples of efforts to counter HIV-related stigma? Could more be done? You will find more learning in this resource to help you with these questions, particularly the sections, 'What you can do' and 'Look in the mirror'. You may also wish to start an 'action plan' or record your thoughts on a 'reflective record' using the templates provided in the 'Taking action' section.
Myths
It’s easy to be confused about what is true about HIV and AIDS and what isn’t. Historically, HIV has been the source of sensationalised and negative media reports, and erroneous and inaccurate information. So, what are the facts and what are myths? Explore the interactive list below to see eighteen common myths about HIV and AIDS. Select each one to ‘bust the myth’ and reveal the fact. Once you know the facts, be sure to pass them on! If you would like additional information, there is a list of resources in the ‘Useful Resources’ section.