A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF PEER SUPPORT FOR MENTAL HEALTH IN PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV

Abstract

Bacground: HIV remains a global challenge with millions of new cases each year. In Indonesia, cases continue to rise, particularly among individuals in their productive years. Beyond medical challenges, stigma and mental health issues significantly impact the quality of life and treatment adherence of people living with HIV (PLHIV). Peer support has proven effective in reducing stigma, enhancing coping mechanisms, and motivating treatment adherence while fostering an inclusive environment. Methods: This systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Articles were sourced from databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect using keywords like "peer support," "mental health," and "HIV." Out of 33,181 identified articles, 9 met the inclusion criteria and were further analyzed.Result: The results of this systematic review encompass several key aspects identified in the studies, including respondent characteristics, the effects of peer support on mental health, the role of stigma, as well as implications for quality of life, communication competence, and support for adolescents living with HIV Conclusion: Peer support is effective in improving the mental health and quality of life of people living with HIV (PLHIV) by reducing depression, anxiety, and stress, while also strengthening coping mechanisms. However, stigma remains a significant barrier, particularly among high-risk groups such as MSM. Integrating peer support with stigma reduction programs and mental health services is highly recommended to enhance the well-being of PLHIV.