Resilience and Reality: Exploring the Lived Experiences of People Living with HIV in Texas During the COVID-19 Pandemic – A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

This study investigated the lived experiences of individuals living with HIV (PLWH) in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area of Texas during the COVID-19 pandemic, using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) framework. The research examined the intersection of health, social dynamics, and psychological resilience among PLWH, who faced compounded vulnerabilities due to systemic inequities and the dual public health crises of HIV and COVID-19. Through semi-structured interviews with ten participants from diverse backgrounds, the study captured the profound impacts of disrupted healthcare systems, heightened stigma, and social isolation on this marginalized population. The findings reveal that the pandemic exacerbated existing inequities in access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and mental health services, while simultaneously highlighting the remarkable resilience of the participants. Adaptive coping mechanisms, community support, and advocacy efforts emerged as critical strategies for navigating the layered challenges of living with HIV during a global health crisis. The study identified key themes such as social isolation and estrangement, the emotional toll of the diagnosis, resilience in navigating health crises, and redefining possibilities through HIV services, with each theme branching into sub-themes that offer deeper interpretations. Participants' narratives underscore the necessity for tailored interventions that address the broad-ranging needs of PLWH, including the integration of mental health services into HIV care and the development of socially-led education campaigns to combat stigma. By focusing on the unique experiences of PLWH, this research contributes to the broader understanding of syndemic health crises, where HIV/AIDS interacts synergistically with other social, economic, and health issues, exacerbating the overall impact on affected communities. The study calls for a paradigm shift in public health policy, emphasizing the need for inclusive and intersectional approaches that prioritize equity, resilience, and community empowerment. The findings also provide actionable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations, advocating for robust telemedicine infrastructure, stigma reduction initiatives, and comprehensive support systems that ensure continuity of care during public health emergencies. As the global community still grapples with the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, this study underlines the urgency of reimagining public health strategies. By centering the voices of those living at the intersection of HIV and COVID-19, it challenges existing paradigms and paves the way for innovative solutions that transcend individual health crises, offering a blueprint for more equitable, inclusive, and resilient healthcare systems. The research not only highlights the structural inequities that deepen health disparities but also illuminates the resilience and adaptive capacities of PLWH, providing a foundation for policies and practices that uphold dignity, wellbeing, and social inclusion for all.