Clinical Services

HIV/AIDS

People with severe mental disorders are often at high risk for HIV infection. Perhaps especially in inner cities, histories of homelessness, of substance abuse, and of sexual and physical abuse contribute to this elevated risk. When complicated by psychiatric symptoms involving diminished impulse control, deficit in social judgement, and impaired cognitive capacities, individuals' abilities to protect themselves in high risk situations may be severely compromised. In response to this prominent HIV risk and to the needs of those already infected with HIV, Community Connections has created two kinds of programs.

First, staff have developed psychoeducational curricula addressing HIV Risk Reduction for people with mental illnesses. A four-session program emphasizes education about HIV risk behaviors; modes of HIV transmission; safer-sex practices; and motivational and social skills issues in risky behavior. A condensed, single-session version of this curriculum has been formulated as well. These curricula, along with programs to train community-based leaderws in HIV prevention modules, have been offered not only to Community Connections consumers but to residents of shelters of shelters for homelss people and to clients of other agencies in the city.

Second, Community Connections has established a specialized supported housing unit for people living with HIV/AIDS. Both the structure and content of this housing are tailored to some of the specific desires and needs of those who are HIV positive. Support groups and an emphasis on holistic, integrated approaches characteriz the residence; physical self-care, prevention of reinfection, mind-body relationships, social support, and spiritual well being are just some of concerns addressed in this setting.

See Research and Publications for additional information.