This episode of Mano Charche features psychologist Dr. Prasad from Victoria Hospital. He explains that AIDS (Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome) is a spectrum of conditions caused by HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). The only ways of getting infected by this virus are unprotected sex, contaminated blood transfusions, use of hypodermic needles, and mother to child infection during pregnancy. He also explains how this infection can be prevented.

HIV+ patients sometimes suffer from psychological problems. HIV affects the brain and can also cause an infection in the brain. Dr. Prasad explains the various types of mental illness observed in these patients, like dementia, depression, psychosocial problems, as well as their symptoms. Though AIDS is incurable, with proper treatment, it can be kept under control.

 
The doctor also talks about the specific reasons that cause mental illness in patients suffering from AIDS. “There are many ways of identifying these illnesses. These patients have the right to lead a good life. This illness can be easily managed with the moral support of family, friends, and colleagues. The society, in general, should also accept them. ”

Life does not end the moment a person is diagnosed as being HIV+. “They need to attend proper counselling sessions and make themselves strong; they need to be in-change of their lifestyle that needs to include healthy eating habits. With self-confidence and proper treatment, a person can lead a normal life without any depression,” he says.
The society needs to stop treating the HIV+ as being unequal. They must be allowed to lead their lives as responsibly and respectfully as others. People should also make more efforts to be more aware of HIV and AIDS.

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