Psychological Distress and its Predictors in AIDS Orphan Adolescents in Addis Ababa City: A Comparative Survey

ABSTRACT

Back ground In developing countries the number of children orphaned by AIDS is growing rapidly. Consequently; the psychological well-being of these children has become a serious concern. Objectives: To assess the psychological distress of AIDS orphans as compared to non-AIDS orphan adolescents and factors related to it; in Addis Ababa. Methods: Comparative cross-sectional design combining both quantitative and qualitative methods was used. An equal number of 438 subjects were included in this study with each group of AIDS and non-AIDS orphan adolescents between 11-18 age groups. Structured interviewer administered questionnaire and scales including HAD; Rosenberg's and MPSS scales were used to measure the orphans' level of depression; anxiety; self-esteem and their perceived social support. Result: Among the study participants; 279 (34.7) orphan adolescents where 157 (39.1) of AIDS and 122 (30.3) of non-AIDS orphan adolescents were depressed in the week before the survey. Moreover; 301(37.4) orphan adolescents where 164 (40.8) of AIDS and 137 (34.1) of non-AID once were anxious. However; the difference observed in depression and anxiety [OR (95CI) =1.164(0.733; 1.754) et 0.88(0.57; 1.33)] was not statistically significant. The main predicator variables of depression and anxiety in both study groups were their perceived social support and self-esteem. Factors such as discrimination; school enrollment; physical abuse; child labor were also identified as predicators. Conclusion: A large proportion of orphan adolescents are having psychological problems that can affect their present and future life. Thus; a more focused and concerted effort is needed to improve their mental health