The Effectiveness of Integrating the Friendship Bench into Routine HIV Care for Improving Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in Harare Clinics

Abstract

The integration of mental health services into HIV care has emerged as a promising strategy to improve antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, particularly in low-resource settings. In Zimbabwe, the Friendship Bench - a community-based mental health intervention - has demonstrated effectiveness in addressing common mental disorders. This study investigates the impact of integrating the Friendship Bench into routine HIV care in Harare clinics. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative data on ART adherence with qualitative insights from patients and healthcare providers. Findings indicate that patients receiving integrated care report improved mental wellbeing, reduced depressive symptoms and higher ART adherence. However, challenges such as stigma, limited male participation and resource constraints persist. The study concludes that integrating the Friendship Bench into HIV care can significantly enhance ART outcomes, provided that gender-sensitive and resource-aware strategies are implemented. Recommendations include policy support, training of lay health workers and community engagement to sustain integration efforts.