Abstract
M.A. (Psychology)
The Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) has become one of the major
challenges that the health care system has had to face and will continue to present a
significant health challenge well into the 21st century.
Up to the present time no effective treatment method has been found as the retroviral
agents typically only cause a temporary inhibition of the progression of the Human
Immunodeficiency Virus (HlV) and not a permanent cessation of the activity ofthe
virus. Psychosocial approaches to the management of HlV have been moderately
successful, but more successful then the retroviral agents during the HIV but non
Clinical stage.
Considering the proportions of the HlV disease, there are few studies in South-Africa,
that describe the therapeutic effects of a stress management package consisting of
aerobic exercise, group-based cognitive behavioural therapy and relaxation training on
mood state changes of asymptomatic and early symptomatic HIV sufferers.
Psychological measures, like depression and anxiety have been found to be associated
with lowered immune responsivity, thus enhancing the underlying immunodeficiency
found in HlV/AIDS sufferers.
Past research has also illustrated the benefits that may be derived from aerobic exercise
on the physiological mechanisms of the body.
The intention of this research, was therefore to further reinforce the positive effects of
aerobic exercise by using a biopsychosocial approach in the treatment of HIV, leading
to an overall improvement in the immunological status, depression and distress levels
of HlV patients, as well as their ability to cope with the disease.
The study took place within the context of a wider project, forming a component of the
AIDS research conducted by Prof. E.Wolff (Rand Afrikaans University).
The study assessed the relevance of this intervention for the South African Setting.