This pilot study aimed to contribute to the development of a methodology for researching various aspects of the relationship between HIV/AIDS and suicide in South Africa. To date, few systematic studies into this relationship have been conducted in South Africa. Specifically this study investigated the aspect of suicidal ideation in relation to HIV seroposivity, CD4 cell counts and social support. Although this study did not find increased suicidality in this sample of people living with HIV, the findings highlighted variables that may need to be studied in greater depth and outlined suggestions for further research methodology. Further research could indicate the extent to which suicide assessment and counselling is needed for people living with HIV/AIDS. This in turn could inform policy makers as to the inclusion of suicide assessment into the protocol for Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT).

Thesis (M.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007.