The prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders is high in HIV-infected individuals. Despite being frequent, these disorders are often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Many of these conditions show differential clinical features as compared with HIV-uninfected individuals. The main neuropsychiatric disorders observed in HIV patients are described. Routine psychiatric evaluation of HIV-infected persons may enhance adherence to antiretroviral treatment, decrease risk behaviors, reduce medical complications and use of hospital services and, ultimately, may improve the quality of life.