A behavioral medicine intervention as an adjunctive treatment for HIV-related illness

Using a psychoneuroimmunological approach to HIV infection, this study compared a treatment group of 13 gay males receiving thermal biofeedback training, guided imagery, and hypnosis with a waiting-list control group of 13 gay males. Ss completed the Profile of Mood States, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the HIV Distress Inventory. Results suggest that the thermal biofeedback, guided imagery, and hypnosis techniques decreased self-reported HIV-related symptoms, increased hardiness, and increased perceived vigor. However, the treatment program did not result in significant changes in absolute number of CD4 cells, or tension or depression levels.