HIV and Mental Health

HIV and Mental Health: What Can the Church Do? is an invitation to churches and faith communities to engage courageously and compassionately with the profound intersections of HIV, mental health, and psychosocial wellbeing. Drawing on theological reflection and global best practice, this manual affirms the church’s unique vocation as a place of healing, dignity, and hope.

The resource offers a grounded overview of mental health challenges faced by people living with or affected by HIV and addresses stigma—which is often compounded within faith contexts. It highlights the importance of integrating mental health and psychosocial support into HIV responses. Rooted in scripture and theology, the manual combines reflection with practical tools, case examples, and a clear framework for action.

Designed as a practical guide rather than a prescriptive text, it supports congregations to accompany individuals and communities with empathy, wisdom, and care, and to initiate locally meaningful programmes that do no harm.

Preface

Acknowledgements

Cover

Introduction

Mental Health Issues: A Reality from Earliest Times

Part 1: Technical Briefing

What is Mental Health?

The Scope and Scale of the Problem

Determinants of Mental Health

Mental Health and HIV

Christians and Mental Health Challenges

Inter-Agency Standing Committee Intervention Pyramid: MHPSS Intervention Recommendation

Mitigating Determinants to Promote Better Mental Health

Part 2: Living Our Faith

Why Faith Communities Need to Be Involved

World Health Organisation (WHO): Paths to Transformation

Recognize and Affirm Worth

Deepen Values and Commitment to Mental Health across All Sectors

Reshape the Environment

Strengthen Mental Healthcare

Best Practice Examples

Part 3: Theological Resources to Support Practical Application

Conclusion

Toolkit: Mental Health and Psychosocial Support

• By (author) Sue Parry