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

AIDS Behav. 2015 Aug;19(8):1460-9. doi: 10.1007/s10461-015-1094-y.

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Condoms / statistics & numerical data*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / diagnosis
  • Depression / ethnology
  • Depression / psychology*
  • HIV Infections / prevention & control*
  • Homosexuality, Male / ethnology
  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Lesotho / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Risk Factors
  • Risk-Taking
  • Sexual Partners / psychology
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Social Discrimination*
  • Social Stigma*
  • Social Support
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Stress, Psychological