HIV Related Stigma and discrimination a patients perspective

HIV Related Stigma and discrimination: a patients perspective Jane Bruton and Robert

Stigma “…If we do not appreciate the nature and impact of stigma, none of our interventions can begin to be successful. AIDS is probably the most stigmatised disease in history. ” Edwin Cameron Legislating an epidemic: the challenge of HIV/AIDS in the workplace. 2007. ILO

What is HIV related stigma? Beliefs and attitudes that deeply discredit and devalue a person or group because of an association with HIV

What is HIV related discrimination? Actions or omissions that harm or deny services or entitlements to stigmatised individuals

Stigma and discrimination are a violation of human rights and undermine the public health effort to tackle HIV and AIDS

Keys causes of stigma • Lack of awareness and knowledge of stigma and discrimination and its harmful effects • Fear of acquiring HIV through everyday contact due to misconceptions around HIV transmission • Values that link people with HIV with behaviour that is considered improper or immoral

It’s worth noting…. . • Stigmatising illness is not unusual – leprosy, TB, mental health • Beliefs about danger and pollution are often used as a form of social control • Attaching dirt and infection risk to social groups is a common political strategy - Jews in the 1930’s, Tutsi 1990’s • Stigma by association is a powerful force.

Outcome of stigma • Reluctance to test • Reluctance to disclose • Less likely to access treatment, care or support • Less likely to adopt preventative behaviour or access preventative services

An interview with Robert

What can nurses do? • • Everyone responsible for fighting stigma Role modelling Share learning Talk openly about HIV/AIDS without offending Facilitate discussion Avoid stigmatising words Challenge stigma