This article examines the impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic on individuals, families and communities within Africa. The author notes that AIDS presents a challenge to the helping professions to provide a meaningful response to some of the serious psychosocial issues involved. These issues include depersonalisation of those affected by the virus; a tendency towards over-identification and "burnout" on the part of the helper, fears of contagion, dying and death and a sense of helplessness and anger. Social isolation, stigmatisation and rejection may lead to further undesirable negative consequences for those with HIV/AIDS. Extending from the psychological and social implications of the disease, the article then examines some of the socioeconomic effects, including the loss of the most active and skilled category of the workforce. The article examines relevant ethical issues and considers how special education and community programmes can help in reducing the spread of the disease.
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