The impact of social connections on mental health and HIV management during COVID-19

Social connections, risk for COVID-era psychiatric and substance use disorders, and HIV control

NIH-funded research Suny Downstate Medical Center · NIH-10975043

This study is looking at how having friends and social support can help people with HIV feel better mentally, especially during tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s for anyone who feels lonely or isolated and wants to improve their health and connections with others.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSuny Downstate Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Brooklyn, United States)
Project IDNIH-10975043 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how social connections affect mental health and the management of HIV, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on individuals who experience social isolation or loneliness, which can lead to increased risks of substance abuse and depression. By using a longitudinal and community-engaged approach, the study aims to identify effective interventions that can enhance social connections and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations. Participants will be involved in discussions and assessments that explore their social relationships and health management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV who are experiencing loneliness or social isolation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or who do not experience issues related to social connections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health and better management of HIV for individuals facing social isolation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that enhancing social connections can lead to improved health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Brooklyn, 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 2026-06-10 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.