Understanding the Effects of Stigma and Coping Mechanisms of People Living with HIV

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is one of the most epidemic, incurable and stigmatized virus at present. Since the
start of the virus, there had been millions of people infected and died because of it. Aside from the risk of possible death,
stigma and discrimination are two of the most dreadful experiences that people living with HIV (PLHIV) face in their
communities. This led to the purpose of this study, which is to understand the stigmas and their effects alongside with
the coping mechanisms of PLHIV. The researchers utilized a qualitative questionnaire distributed to the informants.
Research protocols and ethical considerations were done in the study’s implementation. The data gathered shows that
informants experienced social and physical discrimination, self-stigma and fear of disclosure which made them pity their
situations, inflict abuse to themselves and let abuse be inflicted to them by others. They cope up through their spiritual
faith, support from their family and their HIV support group. It was emphasized by the informants that the HIV support
group, especially their counselors are of great help and encouragement for them to continue with life. Thus, these results
call for a strengthened set of policies in educating and involving the PLHIV’s families in dealing with their condition,
empowering the HIV support groups institutionally and financially and even having broader information dissemination
about HIV in order for these fighters to keep normalcy in their lives around their communities.