Abstract

People living with HIV (PLHIV) experience complex psychosocial challenges arising from chronic illness, social stigma, discrimination, and lifelong dependence on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Effective coping strategies are crucial in enabling individuals to manage emotional distress, maintain treatment adherence and sustain social functioning. This qualitative phenomenological study aimed to explore the coping strategies adopted by PLHIV attending selected ART centres in Tripura. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 25–30 PLHIV and analyzed using thematic and narrative analysis. The findings revealed a wide range of coping strategies, categorized as problem-focused, emotion-focused, social, and avoidance coping. Adaptive strategies included acceptance of illness, medication adherence, spirituality and social support, while maladaptive strategies such as secrecy, social withdrawal and denial were also evident. The study underscores the importance of strengthening positive coping mechanisms through structured psychosocial interventions at ART centres to improve psychological well-being and long-term health outcomes among PLHIV.