THE CONTRIBUTION OF SPIRITUAL SUPPORT TO THE WELLBEING OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV AND AIDS (PLWHA) IN MBALA DISTRICT OF ZAMBIA

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore how Spiritual Support contribute to the wellbeing of People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in Mbala district of Zambia. A phenomenological research design was used to unveil how Spiritual Support contributes to the wellbeing of People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in Mbala district of Zambia. The study population included the PLWHA in Mbala district. The total sample was eight (8) participants supported by the Faith-Based Organisation in Mbala District. The study found that the PLWHA find comfort when they attend communal biblical counselling where biblical verses are used to encourage the patients. The Spiritual Support is realised through fellowshipping and hope preaching by the Church and through the Faith Based Organisation operating under the Church and its partnerships with Donor Agencies. The Donor Agencies have provided more than Spiritual Support to the PLWHA in the Zambian community. The study recommended that there is need for the Ministry of Health to ensure that they provide funding to the clinics so that more community health providers are employed to help with the home visits. This will increase the rate of adherence to medication and schedules which are given to the PLWHA in the Zambian communities.