Depression in HIV positive women over time: Association with gender-based violence and stress-related factors

Background: The experience of gender-based violence has demonstrated association with depression in HIV positive women, and coping style has been shown to impact depression in this context. This study aims to explore the association of depression with gender-based violence and stress-related constructs in HIV positive women over time. Methods: Data was collected from women (n=366) recruited from clinics in 2 southeastern states in the U.S. Sociodemographics, abusive experiences, and psychosocial factors were assessed at baseline, 6 months and 12 months as part of a randomized control trial. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to examine the association of gender-based violence reported at baseline with depression, and the relationship of stress, negative coping, practical support and spirituality over time, controlling for age, treatment condition and income. Results: Sexual abuse, stress and negative coping at baseline were significantly positively associated with initial depression level while income was significantly negatively associated. Rate of change in depression was significantly negative over time. Baseline levels of stress and negative coping, and average practical support at follow ups were significantly associated with an increase in rate of reduction in depression while income and average levels of stress and negative coping at follow ups were associated with a decrease in rate of reduction in depression. Conclusions: Sexual violence, stress, and negative coping are associated with depression in women with HIV. Stress, negative coping, and practical support are associated with rates of reduction in depression, and may be important in interventions aimed at reducing depression in HIV positive women.