Suicide and AIDS: problem identification during counselling.

HIV infection brings with it some pertinent aspects that might make those infected, and even those affected, vulnerable to suicidal thoughts or actions. Health care workers, from varied professional backgrounds, are well placed to take a lead in addressing suicidal issues more routinely in the course of counselling. To do this effectively they need to be aware of the general signs of suicidal ideation as well as those specific to people with HIV infection. Skills and knowledge can be acquired to facilitate problem identification during routine clinical follow-up of patients.