Depression and Social Stigma Among MSM in Lesotho: Implications for HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention

Overview

Journal AIDS Behav

Specialty Infectious Diseases

Date 2015 May 14

PMID 25969182

Citations 53

Authors

Shauna Stahlman

Ashley Grosso

Sosthenes Ketende

Stephanie Sweitzer

Tampose Mothopeng

Noah Taruberekera

John Nkonyana

Stefan Baral

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Social stigma is common among men who have sex with men (MSM) across Sub-Saharan Africa, and may influence risks for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) via its association with depression. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 530 MSM in Lesotho accrued via respondent-driven sampling. Using generalized structural equation models we examined associations between stigma, social capital, and depression with condom use and testing positive for HIV/STIs. Depression was positively associated with social stigma experienced or perceived as a result of being MSM. In contrast, increasing levels of social cohesion were negatively associated with depression. Social stigma was associated with testing positive for HIV; however, this association did not appear to be mediated by depression or condom use. These data suggest a need for integrated HIV and mental health care that addresses stigma and discrimination and facilitates positive social support for MSM.

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