Marseille 2007
Marseille 2007
Abstract book
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Abstract #425  -  Effective Community led Psychosocial intervention for HIV and AIDS Induced depression in resource poor communities: lessons learned in Kenya.
Session:
  38.8: Counselling and Therapy (Parallel) on Tuesday @ 14.00-16.00 in CP Chaired by Barbara Hedge, Michael Blank
Authors:
  Presenting Author:   Mr Lincoln Ndogoni - Worldvision International, Kenya
 
  Additional Authors:  Ms Susan Wachira,  
Aim:
To provide community led Interpersonal Psychotherapy for groups (IPT-G) psychosocial intervention in order to alleviate depression and dysfunction among adults and children communities severely affected by HIV/AIDs in Kenya.
 
Method / Issue:
An ethographic asseesment to establish the mental health status and function of affected communities was carried in three culturally diffeent communities.30 trained Interpersonal psychotherapy for groups (IPT-G) facilitators provided 16-20 weeks of 1-2 hour group therapy sessions per week to adults and chilren indicating with signs and symptoms of depression. 4500 individuals in gender segregated groups of 10 12 individuals per group benefited from the intervention.
 
Results / Comments:
post intervention asessessment of beneficiaries showed significant reduction in signs and symptoms of depression from 57% to 6.7%.In addition,there was a reduction in functional disability from 76.4% to 22.6%. All groups have shown significant improvement in self-care,adherence to medication for those living ith HIV and Aids. More important, care for orphans and vulnerable children.In addtion,most groups have initiated self-run income generating activities after the intervention, meet weekly on their own and have created strong bonds that have encouraged support and care for ophans and vulnerable children within the community.
 
Discussion:
Group interpersonal psychotherapy proved efficacious in reducing depression symptoms and dysfunctional disability in three culturally different Kenyan communities.Interpersonal psychotherapy for groups can effectively be provided by non mental health local people under the supervision and leadership of a qualified mental health professional. The group treatment for depression proved feasible in the local setting and these findings should encourage the use of IPT-G in similar settings in Africa.
 
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