Care and Support 50 HIV+ Orphan Children in India

Ms. Eniya is a 17-year-old girl living with her maternal grandmother. Her father left when she was 4 years old, after her mother's death, and her grandmother has been taking care of her since then. Ms. Eniya is very kind and sensitive towards other children and enjoys being with her friends in the support group. However, she struggled to express her feelings about her father's neglect and the stigma she faced because her parents' marriage was not officially registered, which was pointed out by a village officer when she tried to access a social benefit.

These painful experiences affected her deeply, leading her to lose interest in her health and skip her treatment. Over the past five years, she had to switch from first-line to third-line treatment, and now even that is no longer effective. On top of that, she has developed pneumonia, worsening her health, and she is now in the fourth stage of AIDS.

Stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS is one of the most significant challenges faced by young people living with the condition. It manifests in various ways, including social isolation, discrimination, and internalized shame. The constant fear of being judged or rejected leads to anxiety, depression, and a lack of self-worth. Stigma often discourages people from seeking treatment and support services due to fear and shame of the infection. 

Encouraging communities particularly family members, friends and neighbourhood community to foster inclusive and accepting environments can help reduce stigma and support those affected. Addressing the stigma associated with HIV is essential for improving the lives of those living with the condition, ensuring they have access to the care and support they need, and promoting a more compassionate and informed society.