Narratives of Change From Gay and Bisexual Men Living With HIV in an Emotional Well-Being Intervention

Abstract

The emotional burden of an HIV diagnosis can impact HIV outcomes and overall well-being. We piloted a four-session individual-level emotional well-being intervention, offered during HIV care visits, for gay and bisexual men living with HIV in Guatemala City who were recently diagnosed or reengaged in care. To assess intervention impact in a contextualized manner, we conducted longitudinal qualitative interviews (n = 3) with study participants (n = 10) over 12 months. Data analysis included thematic coding using NVivo and longitudinal narrative summaries and matrices to identify narratives of change and assess intervention impact. Participants experienced changes in their view of self and diagnosis perceptions, improved physical and mental health, increased interest in sex and relationships, and a clarification of their life goals. The intervention helped participants reach diagnosis acceptance, improve self-esteem, and gain self-efficacy for managing life with HIV. Findings support the importance of integrating emotional well-being into HIV care.

HIV Treatment and Mental Health Outcomes Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With HIV in a Pilot Multicomponent Intervention in Guatemala City

“…A subgroup of participants ( n = 10) who also participated in qualitative interviews indicated that the sessions helped them reach diagnosis acceptance, improve self-esteem, and gain self-efficacy for managing life with HIV, which may explain the significant association between participation in EW sessions and reduced anxiety (Bartels et al, 2022). They also appreciated clarifying life goals and developing a life plan in the final session.…”