Exploring Psychosocial and Economic Support for Children with HIV/AIDS: Perspectives of Health and Community Workers in the Katuba Health Zone, Lubumbashi.

Abstract

Objective: To determine the challenges requiring psychosocial and economic support faced by children living with HIV, to describe the interventions in place and to explore the experience of professionals providing services in a health district in the city of Lubumbashi in the DRC.

Methods: A descriptive case study using the phenomenological qualitative approach was conducted in the Katuba health district. Over the course of eight months (June 1, 2024 - February 8, 2025), with data collection from July 1 and August 1, 2024. HIV focal points participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews, and case managers participated in focus groups. ATLAS.ti (version 12) was used to conduct the thematic analysis.

Results: On average, the participants had 15.5 ± 11.43 years of experience, and 50% were senior nurses. The average age of the sample was 44.21 ± 9.40 years, and 57% of participants were female. Significant obstacles included the daily stresses of therapy, difficulties with adherence (especially when symptoms were not obvious), and experiences of discrimination, stigma, and exclusion within families, schools, and wider society. These issues adversely impacted education, work, and interpersonal connections. Children people also experienced financial difficulties, limited access to job opportunities and vocational training, and anxiety about an uncertain future. While psychosocial support was universally accepted, economic assistance was considered only partially beneficial due to funding delays and resource limitations. The recommendations focused on increasing government financing, improving access to medical and emotional support services, raising awareness of prevention measures, and strengthening human and material resources.

Conclusion: This research highlights the challenges faced by children living with HIV and underlines the importance of early identification and effective management of these problems to improve their quality of life. Current interventions are deemed effective, but could be improved by strengthening the support system, particularly in terms of human and organisational resources.