During the 13th AFRAVIH conference hosted in Lausanne, Switzerland, experts and advocates are addressing the profound psychological challenges accompanying HIV. This international summit focuses on how the infectious disease impacts the mental well-being of those living with the virus.

The urgency of integrated care is highlighted by alarming statistics. A 2022 study conducted by psychiatrist Philip Kreniske at the New York State Psychiatric Institute revealed that individuals living with HIV are 74% more likely to have attempted suicide than those without the condition.

Advocacy for youth in Burkina Faso

Key participants include:

• Christine Kafando, a prominent activist from Burkina Faso. She made history as the first woman in her nation to publicly disclose her HIV status. During the AFRAVIH conference, she is presenting her work on the specialized mental health care required for adolescents living with HIV, drawing from her experience leading an association in Burkina Faso.