how has social support affected stigmatization among HIV/AIDS patients?

Answer 1

In general, health studies have shown that strong social networks and social support lead to better health outcomes.

In the case of HIV/AIDS, improved social support for patients has improved their quality of life and improved their mental health. Some studies have even suggested that social support can prolong an HIV+ patient's life and reduced severity of symptoms, though this can be directly attributable to having people to take them to see doctors and get medications in addition to simply cheering them up.

With good social support, we can reduce stigmatization of HIV+ patients by giving them positive role models as well as people with whom they can identify. By finding a place in the community, HIV+ feel less alienated and more engaged. This makes them feel better as people, and more likely to comply with treatment and more likely to engage in community strengthening activites (charities, education and so forth).

In order to promote social support, there needs to be a lot of community education about HIV. There also needs to be a good starting point -- an active and vocal group in the community to promote a good image for HIV/AIDS patients. That way, other people will be more inclined to join in and give a positive voice to HIV+ people in their communities.