Depression in HIV Symptomatic Gay and Bisexual Men

This study examined the prevalence and correlates of depression in a sample of 96 gay and bisexual HIV symptomatic men at a large urban AIDS service organization. Of the sample, 69.5% scored in the depressive range according to the Center for Edpidemiological Studies Depression Scale. Impaired social functioning, poor general health, limited social support, disability, younger age and previous mental health treatment were all found to be significantly correlated with higher depression scores. Other variables commonly associated with depression (ethnicity, income, education, and living arrangement) were not found to be statistically significant. The implications of these findings are discussed. Social workers and AIDS service organizations are encouraged to develop programs which target and treat those most at risk for depression in this vulnerable population.