JIAPAC 2011;10(2): 89-96.

Purpose: To compare depression risk among vertically HIV-infected adolescents and matched controls in northern Thailand.
Methods: The Thai Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI) was administered among vertically HIV-infected adolescents and matched controls in northern Thailand from 2007-2008, as part of a comprehensive quantitative survey that also assessed demographics, substance use, and sexual behavior and knowledge. A total CDI score >15 was considered a positive screen for possible depression.
Results: Fifty-four cases and 165 controls participated; cases had significantly lower mean CDI scores (p=0.003) and fewer screened positive for possible depression (p=0.046). Among all participants, those who screened positive were more likely to have ever used cigarettes (p=0.056), drunken alcohol (p=0.02), or engaged in any pre-sexual activity (p=0.02).
Conclusions: Depressive symptoms and depression risk were reduced among vertically HIV-infected adolescents compared to matched controls in northern Thailand. Further investigation into mental health disorders among vertically HIV-infected adolescents in developing settings is needed.