A Philadelphia health center will explore the connection between HIV and mental health at its annual HIV Education Summit.
In 2022, seven in 10 people living with HIV rated their health as good or better but 27% of those people needed mental health care and did not receive it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Winniferd Bell, chief learning officer for Philadelphia FIGHT Community Health Centers, said more than half of Philadelphians living with HIV are 50 or older, making healthy aging a key topic. Bell noted the summit focuses on awareness, prevention and building a coalition to end AIDS diagnoses.
“We have a 101 series where folks can learn about the basics of HIV, engaging in therapy, and also hepatitis C, which intersects with HIV,” Bell explained.
Events like the summit also help connect Philadelphia residents with HIV testing information. Organizations such as FIGHT offer on-site outreach and guidance for both in-person and at-home testing options. National HIV Testing Day is June 27.
Bell noted federal cuts from the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” could have serious consequences for people living with HIV. The law increases restrictions and shortens the renewal period for benefits, meaning more people could lose coverage if they miss deadlines. Bell pointed out disruptions in health care access can worsen stress, anxiety, grief and other mental health challenges, especially for people already managing chronic health conditions.
“Folks living with HIV are reliant on medication to stay healthy," Bell emphasized. "Disruption to healthcare, not just health insurance but the healthcare system, is very distressing to a lot of folks because they’re not sure that they’re going to be able to sustain the level of health that they have.”
Bell added many people still do not realize how significant the upcoming health care changes could be. Philadelphia FIGHT is working to help residents keep their medical coverage, navigate re-enrollment requirements and connect with community resources. Bell stressed the challenges extend beyond health care, with many families also struggling to access food and other basic needs.
Source: Public News Service
