UNVEILING THE PSYCHOLOGICAL JOURNEY OFHIVPOSITIVEINDIVIDUALSAMIDSTTHECOVID-19

ABSTRACT: This phenomenological study investigates the challenges and coping strategiesof people living with HIV during the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside deriving significantinsights into their experiences. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the research involved ten HIV-positive individuals in Davao City, all of whom have been living with HIV for at least two years. These participants were selected through purposive sampling under the supervisionof the Reproductive Health & Wellness Center Davao (RHWC) of the Davao City HealthOffice.Data were gatheredand analyzedusing thematic analysistodraw meaningfulconclusions. The findings reveal challenges faced by HIV-positive individuals during thepandemic. These include deepened commitment to self-care, actively sought social supportand extensive use of health services. In response to these adversities, participants employedvarious coping strategies. These strategies encompassed a strengthened commitment toself-care, active pursuit of social support, and extensive utilization of health services. Theseexperiences, marked by both challenges and resilience, provide valuable insights into theunique psychological needs and fortitudes of this group. They underline the importance ofcrafting targeted interventions aimed at enhancing the mental health and overall well-being of HIV-positive individuals, particularly in the context of global health crises such asCOVID-19.

KEYWORDS: challenges, coping strategies, covid-19, HIV-positive individuals, mental health,psychologicaljourney