Index of articles from The Mind/Body Medical Institute

Mind/Body Medical Clinic For HIV/AIDS Related Disorders

Receiving a positive result on the HIV antibody test or a diagnosis of AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is frightening and stressful for patients and their loved ones. Dealing with any chronic or life-threatening illness challenges a person's deepest reserves, but learning to cope with he illness may improve the quality of life.

Program Components

Treatment plans include:

• elicitation of the relaxation response, a physical state of deep rest that changes the physical and emotional responses to stress (e. g., decrease in heart rate, blood pressure and muscle tension)
• cognitive-behavioral strategies to enhance coping skills
• nutrition management
• stretching exercises and activity programs

Program Goals

You will be able to:

• regain a sense of control and well-being
• examine factors or situations, such as lifestyle, diet, stress or physical tension, that contribute to stress-induced reduction in immune function
• develop an understanding of HIV+/AIDS symptoms process

Who Would Benefit

Anyone who has received a positive result on the HIV+ or antibody test or a diagnosis of AIDS.

Visits

The Mind-Body Medical Clinic for HIV+ and AIDS-Related Disorders includes:

• one initial assessment
• ten, weekly two-hour visits
• one discharge assessment

For Further Information

The Mind-Body Medical Clinic for HIV+ and AIDS Related Disorders is directed by Ann Webster, Ph.D., health psychologist. The Mind-Body Medical Clinic programs are offered by the Division of Behavioral Medicine at Beth Israel/Deaconess Medical Center, directed by Herbert Benson, M.D. and Aggie Casey, M.S., R.N., C.C.R.N. For further information, please e-mail Dr. Webster at awebster@bidmc.harvard.edu.

How to Reach The Mind/Body Medical Institute

824 Boylston Street
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

Phone: 617.991.0102
Fax: 617.991.0112
E-mail: awebster@bidmc.harvard.edu
Web: www.mbmi.org