Discourses of mental wellness among adolescents living with HIV in Cape Town, South Africa
Abstract
Adolescence is a unique period of development where individuals transition from childhood to adulthood, and where
they are at heightened risk for developing mental health problems and engaging in risky behaviours. In addition, adolescents living
with HIV (ALHIV) must learn to cope with challenges related to the biological impact of a chronic condition, adhering to lifelong
treatment, and managing HIV-related psychological and social challenges. Mental wellness as a precursor to mental wellbeing, is vital
to facilitate persistent adherence and engagement in care for optimal treatment outcomes for ALHIV. However, little is known about
how ALHIV understand and talk about mental wellness in the context being on HIV treatment.