Exploring how mental health services can help reduce HIV hotspots in sub-Saharan Africa.

Can mental health services break the cycle perpetuating HIV hotspots in sub-Saharan Africa?

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11056102

This study is looking at how mental health issues like depression and anxiety affect people’s ability to stick to their HIV treatment and make safe choices, and it aims to find the best ways to combine mental health support with HIV prevention efforts in areas of sub-Saharan Africa that need it most.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11056102 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, and their impact on HIV treatment adherence and risky behaviors in sub-Saharan Africa. By using mathematical modeling, the study aims to identify different types of HIV hotspots and determine the most effective ways to integrate mental health services into HIV prevention strategies. The research will collaborate with experts in Kenya and Zambia to create a plan for implementing these services in areas most affected by HIV. This approach seeks to enhance the overall effectiveness of HIV prevention efforts in regions struggling to control the epidemic.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly those experiencing mental health challenges.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or do not have mental health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health support for individuals living with HIV, ultimately reducing new infections and enhancing treatment adherence.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that integrating mental health services into chronic disease management can improve health outcomes, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.