HIV does not directly cause mental health problems. Most mental health illnesses, such as depression and bipolar disorder, are caused by a chemical and hormonal imbalance in the brain. These may be a result of many things, such as trauma or even genetics

The Relationship Between HIV and Mental Health - PrEP Daily

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2021 Jan-Dec;20:2325958220985665.J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care

Mental Health in Women Living With HIV: The Unique and Unmet Needs

Elizabeth M Waldron 1, Inger Burnett-Zeigler 1, Victoria Wee 1, Yiukee Warren Ng 2, Linda J Koenig 3, Aderonke Bamgbose Pederson 1, Evelyn Tomaszewski 4, Emily S Miller 1 5

• DOI: 10.1177/2325958220985665

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HIV medication, commonly referred to as antiretroviral therapy (ART), can have various effects on the body, including potential hormonal changes. However, the specific impact can vary depending on the individual, the specific medications used, and other factors.

Certain antiretroviral drugs have been associated with hormonal changes in some HIV-positive individuals. For instance, certain protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) have been linked to changes in hormone levels, such as alterations in testosterone and estrogen levels. These changes can affect various aspects of hormonal balance and may lead to symptoms like decreased libido, changes in body fat distribution, or menstrual irregularities.

Stigma towards HIV sufferers can also contribute to stress and psychological factors that might affect hormonal regulation. Experiencing discrimination, social isolation, or mental health challenges due to HIV-related stigma can potentially impact the endocrine system and hormone production.

However, it's important to note that not all individuals on HIV medication experience significant hormonal changes. Additionally, advancements in antiretroviral therapy have led to the development of newer drugs with fewer side effects, including reduced impact on hormone levels.

If you have concerns about the hormonal effects of HIV medication or how stigma may be impacting your health, it is crucial to discuss these issues with a healthcare professional who specializes in HIV care. They can evaluate your specific situation, provide personalized advice, and offer appropriate management strategies.

Some HIV medications affect hormone levels thereby resulting in hormonal changes.

“We now have the tools and knowledge to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic as a threat to public health — and to do so by 2030,” write John Nkengasong, Mike Reid, Ingrid Katz at the US AIDS-relief programme PEPFAR. The goal: to reach the ‘95-95-95’ targets of at least 95% of people living with HIV knowing their status; at least 95% of those people being on life-saving antiretroviral therapy; and at least 95% of those people having an undetectable viral load. To get there, argue the authors, will require the use of behavioral-science approaches to reach populations that are most in need...

https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03715-x