Adaptation of Inuka coaching problem-solving therapy to support mental health and HIV medication adherence among status-neutral men who have sex with men in South Africa

AI Summary

This study looked at adapting a coaching program to help improve mental health and support taking HIV prevention or treatment medication among men who have sex with men in South Africa. Depression is common in this group and can make it harder for people to take their medication consistently, which is important for both preventing HIV and keeping the virus under control. The researchers developed a new program called WeCare, based on a successful problem-solving therapy model, and offered it to 20 men with mild to moderate symptoms of depression who were using either HIV prevention or treatment medication. Participants took part in several individual and group coaching sessions where they could talk about their feelings and learn ways to better manage problems affecting their well-being. After the sessions, most participants had much lower scores for mental distress, and they said they valued having a safe space to discuss their emotional health. People taking part and the coaches agreed the intervention was acceptable, but suggested it needs to be adapted to better fit the local culture and experiences of men in this community and to include more information about HIV medications. Coaches were enthusiastic about delivering the support but noted they needed more training on medication details to help others with adherence. Overall, the results suggest the adapted coaching approach is feasible and appreciated, and it could be further improved and tested to help support both mental health and medication use in this population.