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Feedback: Early symptoms of central nervous system impairment are similar to those of depression and include forgetfulness, inability to concentrate, psychomotor retardation, decreased alertness, apathy, withdrawal, diminished interest in work, and loss of sexual desire. In more advanced stages, patients may experience confusion, disorientation, seizures, profound dementia, and coma. A common symptom for women with AIDS is gynecologic infection. Interventions that reduce depression are, thus, useful in the fight against AIDS. Coping skills training and the practice of meditation may also improve adjustment to the disease. Stress and its neuroendocrine consequences foster a more rapid course of illness in people who are infected with HIV and lead to more opportunistic or more aggressive symptoms. Social support is very important to people with HIV infection or AIDS. Social support has been tied to greater adherence and lower viral load. Support from family appears to be especially important for preventing depression. Optimism, active coping, extraversion, conscientiousness, and spirituality all predict slower disease progression.