People living with HIV may also experience other mental health problems, unrelated to their HIV diagnosis, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), personality disorders and bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic depression). There are medical treatments available for these conditions, including drugs such as antipsychotics, anticonvulsants and mood stabilisers such as lithium. Psychological therapies and support groups will also help.

As with treatment for depression (see Mental health problems), there may be interactions between these drugs and some anti-HIV drugs. These will need to be taken into account in choosing a treatment regimen for both your HIV and a mental health condition. It’s important your healthcare team knows about any drugs you are already on when they are prescribing something new.