Reducing stigma for people living with HIV who use substances
Intervention to Reduce Internalized Stigma (IRIS) among People Living with HIV who use Substances
This study is designed to support people living with HIV who also deal with substance use issues by helping them overcome the negative feelings they may have about themselves, using a friendly group program that includes fun activities and discussions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Friends Research Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10897338 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to help individuals living with HIV who also struggle with substance use disorders by reducing the stigma they face. It adapts an existing intervention called Ending Self-Stigma (ESS), which has been effective in other populations, to specifically address the needs of this group. The intervention consists of nine group sessions that utilize cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and interactive activities to help participants understand and combat internalized stigma. By engaging with both healthcare providers and individuals affected, the study seeks to improve health outcomes such as adherence to HIV treatment and overall well-being.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who are living with HIV and have a diagnosis of opioid or cocaine use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the mental health and treatment adherence of patients living with HIV and substance use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in reducing stigma in other populations using similar cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, indicating potential for this adaptation.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Friends Research Institute, INC. — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fletcher, Jesse Bradford — Friends Research Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Fletcher, Jesse Bradford
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 below.