Aims: Although interventions for addressing the health aspects of adolescents living with HIV are in place, studies however indicate that there is limited documentation of experiences of adolescents living with HIV. Such knowledge could help HIV programs to better respond to their needs. This study explored experiences of adolescents aged 10–19 living with HIV in Kanyama community, Lusaka district of Zambia.
Methods: A phenomenological study design was used to explore experiences of adolescents living with HIV and what helps them to cope with their condition. Data were collected using in-depth interviews with 24 adolescents living with HIV and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results: There were variations regarding their experience with HIV disclosure process. While some adolescents felt good after disclosure, others were sad after being told that they were HIV positive. Some adolescents were not pleased with the idea of disclosing their HIV status without their consent. Most adolescents felt supported by their family members while a few experienced stigma which contributed to stress and depression. Adolescents appreciated the use of drugs, however, they reported that they experienced difficulties in adhering to treatment. Some adolescents reported being denied to visit friends as their guardians feared that they may forget to take the drugs. Both girls and boys had concerns about antiretroviral therapy services provided only during week days as they expected to be in class thus limiting accessibility to services. Copying strategies for the challenges experienced included resilience, treatment, non-disclosure, spiritual intervention, social support and support from non-governmental organizations.
Conclusion: Understanding both the positive and negative experiences of adolescents living with HIV and copying strategies may help in developing interventions that enhance positive living among adolescents.