Support for men's mental health and HIV medication use in low-resource settings
Addressing mental health and HIV medication adherence among high-risk men in a resource-limited setting
This project pilots a program that combines mental health support with help taking HIV prevention and treatment medicines for high-risk men in low-resource settings.
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 ID | NIH-11172425 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would help shape the program through interviews so it fits the needs of men like you. A small group will then try the program so the team can refine the manual and how it is delivered. After that, people will be randomly assigned to the new WeCare program or to enhanced usual care and followed at enrollment, 3 months, and 6 months. The program uses problem-solving therapy, stress-and-coping skills, and a status-neutral, non-stigmatizing approach to support adherence to PrEP or ART.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: High-risk men in resource-limited settings who are taking or considering PrEP or ART and who experience depression, anxiety, or other stress-related barriers to medication adherence are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who are not at risk for HIV, women, or men without mental health or adherence challenges (or those outside the study locations) are unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could improve mood and help men stay on PrEP or ART more consistently, lowering HIV risk and improving health.
How similar studies have performed: Other integrated mental-health and adherence programs have shown promise in some settings, but this specific status-neutral, tailored approach in high-risk men in resource-limited areas is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Operario, Don — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Operario, Don
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.