A la Une

Supporting adolescents living with HIV in Burkina Faso: mental health insights

By nigerreport / May 5, 2026

The 13th edition of the AFRAVIH conference, an international summit focused on the fight against HIV, is currently taking place in Lausanne, Switzerland. This year, experts are examining the profound consequences this infectious disease has on the mental health of those living with the virus.

According to a 2022 study by psychiatrist Philip Kreniske, people living with HIV are 74% more likely to have attempted suicide.

The urgency of psychological support is underscored by research from 2022. Philip Kreniske, a psychiatrist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, found that individuals diagnosed with HIV have a 74% higher likelihood of having attempted suicide compared to the general population.

Discussion featuring:

  • Christine Kafando, a dedicated activist from Burkina Faso. She holds the distinction of being the first woman in her country to publicly declare her HIV-positive status. During the congress, she is highlighting the specific mental health protocols and support systems her association has developed for adolescents living with HIV in Burkina Faso.

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