Youth with HIV: How They Feel About CBT and Meds

Depression is a big deal for young people living with HIV. A study called IMPAACT 2002 found that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and a special way of managing meds (MMA) worked better than just standard care to treat depression in these youth. But how did they feel about it? Between 2017 and 2019, 13 sites in the US signed up youth aged 12-24 with nonpsychotic depression. Half got CBT with a therapist and a doc to manage meds (COMB-R), while the other half got regular psychotherapy and med management (ESC).

After 24 weeks, everyone filled out surveys about how acceptable and satisfying they found the care. The results? Teens and their doctors were happier with COMB-R. It seemed less of a hassle and more effective. But therapists didn't feel any different about it. So, while CBT and MMA seem to be a good combo for treating depression in youth with HIV, we need more research to see if it'll work for everyone.

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