Can talking about stigma help people with HIV and depression?

NCT ID NCT06951542

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Disease control Sponsor: University of Pennsylvania Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This pilot study in Malawi tests whether adding stigma-reduction counseling to standard depression treatment helps people living with HIV. Two hundred adults with HIV and depressive symptoms will receive counseling sessions that challenge myths and build coping skills. Researchers will measure if the approach is acceptable, feasible, and shows early signs of improving depression and HIV care engagement.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Stigma Reduction Counseling
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a practical way to improve mental health and HIV care engagement by addressing stigma.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot trial focused on feasibility, not proof of effectiveness. Results may not apply to other settings.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression HIV infectious disease major depressive disorder Social Stigma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DEPRESSION - MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER HEALTH CONDITION STIGMA HIV

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mulanje District Hospital

Mulanje, Malawi
Salima District Hospital

Salima, Malawi

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