Improving mental health and medication adherence for men who have sex with men in South Africa
Official title: Addressing mental health and medication adherence among MSM in South Africa
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10925541 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new program to help men who have sex with men in South Africa improve their mental health and stick to their HIV medications, so they can feel better and stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 19, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $198,531 |
| NIH project number | 1R34MH135806-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10925541 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men who have sex with men living in South Africa who are at risk for HIV and may be experiencing mental health challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as men who have sex with men or those who are not at risk for HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop and pilot an integrated intervention that focuses on improving mental health and medication adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) in South Africa, a group facing high rates of HIV. The project will address the interconnected issues of mental health, such as depression, and the adherence to HIV prevention and treatment medications. By utilizing evidence-based approaches like problem-solving therapy and minority stress theory, the intervention seeks to provide tailored support to enhance both mental well-being and medication adherence. Participants will engage in programs designed specifically for their needs, aiming to improve health outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health and better adherence to HIV medications for MSM, ultimately reducing HIV transmission rates.
How similar studies have gone: There is emerging evidence that integrated mental health and medication adherence interventions can be effective, although this specific approach targeting MSM is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Operario, Don — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Operario, Don
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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WeCare: a combined mental health and HIV medication support program for high-risk men
A patient-friendly program called WeCare aims to support mental health and improve adherence to HIV meds among high-risk men in settings with limited resources.
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WeCare: a mental health and HIV medication adherence program for high-risk men in resource-poor settings
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A new mobile health program aims to help female sex workers in Kenya avoid substance abuse, violence, HIV, and depression by delivering group therapy, online resources, and a peer discussion space.
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A long-term study in rural Uganda will test whether an intervention that combines economic empowerment and family strengthening can help HIV-negative and HIV-affected adolescent girls move safely into young adulthood.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.