Reducing stigma to help women with mental illness and HIV in Botswana stay healthy
RCT of an intersectional stigma intervention to sustain viral suppression among women living with serious mental illness and HIV in Botswana
This study is helping women in Botswana who are dealing with serious mental health issues and HIV by supporting them to focus on what matters most in their lives, especially after they leave the hospital, so they can stick to their treatments and feel better overall.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10876948 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the stigma faced by women living with serious mental illness (SMI) and HIV in Botswana, which can hinder their ability to adhere to necessary treatments. By implementing a novel approach called 'what matters most' (WMM), the study aims to empower these women to engage in activities that are vital to their identity and well-being. The intervention will take place during a critical transition period after psychiatric hospitalization, helping participants navigate the challenges of stigma and improve their adherence to psychiatric and antiretroviral therapies. The ultimate goal is to enhance their viral load suppression and overall health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women living with serious mental illness and HIV in Botswana who are struggling with treatment adherence due to stigma.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have serious mental illness or HIV may not benefit from this specific research intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the health and quality of life for women with SMI and HIV by reducing stigma and enhancing treatment adherence.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that stigma reduction interventions can be effective in improving treatment adherence among marginalized populations, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Lawrence H — New York University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Lawrence H
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.