Pilot Testing Into the Feasibility of the Developed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Intervention
This pilot feasibility randomized controlled trial will test a culturally adapted cognitive behavioral therapy (Ca-CBT) intervention for depression and anxiety among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Peshawar, Pakistan. Fifty participants will be randomized to either receive six sessions of the adapted CBT delivered by trained HIV health workers or treatment as usual (TAU). The study will assess feasibility, acceptability, recruitment and retention rates, and preliminary clinical outcomes, to inform the development of a larger definitive trial.
• Adults aged 18-65 years.
• Pakistani nationals and residents.
• Confirmed HIV diagnosis (newly diagnosed or on ART within 1 month of diagnosis, or already on lifelong ART, according to UNAIDS HIV diagnostic standards).
• Meeting criteria for depression and anxiety: HADS subscale score \>8 on both depression and anxiety, and total HADS score \>15.
• HIV patients with comorbid conditions (e.g., Hepatitis, HCV) may be included if HIV is the primary condition.