Panelists:

– Dr. Angelica Geter Fugerson, DrPH, MPH, Chief Health Officer, City of Atlanta, Office of Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms
– Lynnette Allen, Health Educator, Fulton County
– Dr. William L. Jeffries IV, Associate Chief for Science, Capacity Building Branch, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Overview: The National Institute of Mental Health reports that people living with HIV are at an increased risk for experiencing mood, anxiety and cognitive disorders. They are also twice as likely to suffer from depression than those who are not infected. In addition, stresses caused by difficulties getting necessary services, a loss of social support and relationships, a loss of employment, isolation and changes in one’s physical appearance and bodily abilities can exacerbate mental health issues. This panel will discuss these and other issues affecting this community.