[EUROVIHTA Project--specific intervention program for HIV infected patients to support the coping process with this chronic illness].

In this European multicenter intervention study 117 persons were examined who took part in group programs to improve coping with the HIV-infection. Psychological measures were taken at four times before, during and after the intervention. These were psychological symptoms (SCL-90-R), Coping (TSK), Locus of Control (KKG), Quality of Life (MOS-HIV), and physical health. Psychopathology (DSM-III-R) and neuropsychological deficits were assessed at baseline. The study is designed to investigate, along with the effectiveness of the intervention, differences between participating homosexual men and drug users as well as to discuss HIV as a chronic disease. The program has proven efficiency to enhance psychological and physical wellbeing and to support participants' coping with HIV. Drug users report less psychopathology and more improvement during the intervention. References for the organization of group programs with these subgroups are made.