HIV/AIDS Fact Sheets & Abstracts

Persons living with HIV or AIDS, either symptomatic or asymptomatic, have physical impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities and therefore are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act.In response to concerns that obstacles and prejudices towards persons living with HIV or AIDS still exist in seeking training and/or employment, the Department of Justice published a technical assistance fact sheet. 

Discriminating against people who are infected with HIV/AIDS or anyone thought to be at-risk of infection violates individual human rights and endangers public health. Every person infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS deserves compassion and support, regardless of the circumstances surrounding their infection. Education is crucial in getting this message out.

People living with HIV/AIDS may qualify for the following disability benefits provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA): Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This booklet serves as a resource guide for social workers and other care providers to assist clients with determining eligibility and applying to these federal programs.

NASW recognizes the wide range of issues that affect women and girls, and is committed to advancing the health and mental health well-being of women and their families, both in the United States and globally.

The NASW HIV/AIDS Spectrum: Mental Health Training and Education Project participated in the bi-annual meeting of the Mental Health HIV Services Collaborative (MHHSC). The MHHSC Programs are funded through a federal grant, and are designed to address unmet mental health treatment needs of individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are African American, Hispanic/Latino and/or from other communities of color.

Discriminating against people who are infected with HIV/AIDS or anyone thought to be at-risk of infection violates individual human rights and endangers public health. Every person infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS deserves compassion and support, regardless of the circumstances surrounding their infection. Education is crucial in getting this message out.