Psychological effects are factors which can influence emotional state of an individual either positively or negatively. Psychological effects of HIV/AIDS refer to the factors that can affect the emotional state of PLWHA and make them psychologically unstable. HIV infection is not only a medical issue, but a psychosocial one as well. Infection and the subsequent progression of this disease present the client with a broad range of personal experiences to negotiate (NACC, 2010). At the same time, the person's condition may trigger a variety of reactions from others such as family members, significant others, employers, co-workers, and rehabilitation psychological counselors and other helping professionals. It is very important for rehabilitation professionals to understand the underlying psychosocial issues and stages of HIV infections and AIDS to provide the most effective services possible (Pettifor et al, 2005). Psychological counseling of PLWHA is supposed to help them to face the reality of life by overcoming the psychosocial effects of HIV/AIDS. Psychological counseling provides emotional and psychological support to PLWHA and it offers encouragement, hope and coping skills to their health situation. This paper will tackle the psychological effects of HIV/AIDS and role of psychological counseling.
