Management of Psychological Effects through Counselling During HCV (Hepatitis) Treatment

Hepatitis (HCV) is a serious virus that can cause significant damage to the liver. Many individuals, who contact HCV, do so through blood transfusions or intravenous drug use. Additionally, the treatments available for HCV can cause negative side effects and decrease a client’s quality of life. Psychiatric disorders or drug addiction are often regarding as contraindications against the use of interferon (IFN-α), ribavirin and sofosovior in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Our aim was to find out role of counseling on mental side effect of treatment with IFN- α, ribavirin and sofobuvior in different psychological risk groups. Individuals with HCV also experience psychological problems as a result. For instance, many people who are diagnosed with HCV are of low socioeconomic status and have limited access to adequate health care. Other psychological conditions that are common among individuals with HCV include discrimination, depression, and substance misuse. We suggested that Psychologists may be able to not only help with co morbid conditions but also help clients deal with the adverse side effects of medication and the psychological stigma and discrimination surrounding HCV.