In a Weekend Argus feature by Tracy-Lynn Ruiters, Dr Melané van Zyl of the South African Society of Psychiatrists addressed the alarming reality that more than 111 000 HIV patients have defaulted on treatment in just two years. She explained that depression, anxiety, stigma, and poor social support leave many patients feeling isolated and hopeless — often facing their illness alone. Dr van Zyl emphasised that adherence is not about individual weakness but about overcoming deep psychological, social, and structural barriers that require compassionate, person-centred care.
READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE
https://iol.co.za/weekend-argus/2025-09-25-addressing-the-mental-health-crisis-why-over-111000-hiv-patients-have-defaulted-on-treatment/
Dr Melané van Zyl’s insights remind us that mental health lies at the heart of effective HIV care. Patients struggling with depression, trauma, and fear of stigma often disengage from treatment, particularly young women, men, and rural communities. Her call for non-judgmental counselling, peer support, rapid re-initiation of medication, and strong community outreach reframes adherence as a shared social responsibility — one that can transform both mental and physical wellbeing in South Africa.