Online support group use and psychological health for individuals living with HIV/AIDS

Objective

The Internet provides an opportunity for individuals with HIV/AIDS to obtain support and information in a timely and convenient manner. The present study examines the psychological effects of online support group use for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

Methods

A total of 340 HIV positive online support group users completed an online survey.

Results

Results from structural equation modeling showed that individuals with higher levels of online support group participation had higher levels of empowering processes, which in turn, had higher levels of optimism toward life. Optimism was related to lower levels of loneliness and depression while loneliness was also related to higher levels of depression.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that participants with higher levels of online support group participation had better psychological health than those with lower levels of participation.

Practice implications

Findings suggest that the use of online support groups could be promoted to individuals with HIV/AIDS. Healthcare professionals should work to increase the motivation and confidence patients have in using online support groups. Health education should also be provided to patients with HIV/AIDS so to improve their skills and literacy in using online support groups.