1 - (SYM 16) Stigma, Peer Social Support, and the Mental Health of Sample of Young Sexual Minority Men of Color

Stigma, based on ethnicity, race, and sexual identity, has negative effects on the mental health of young sexual minority men of color (YSMMOC). At the same time, social support (SS) – feeling cared for and connected to others – can buffer against these effects and provide direct mental health benefits. YSMMOC report less SS than White YSMM, but studies suggest that SS is associated with reduced depressive symptoms and other behaviors among youth of color. The study aimed to examine the effect of peer SS and race-based and SI-based stigma on mental health.

Data come from the baseline assessment of a study whose purpose was to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention to reduce sexual HIV transmission risk behavior (HIV TRB) and substance use among YSMM. Between March 2018 and March 2020, YSMMOC (n = 94) were recruited through two community-based organizations in New York City. Those eligible were cismale, aged 15 to 29, and reported recent (past 30 day) substance use and HIV TRB. Measures included: Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8, anxiety and depression), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System’s Companion Subscale (peer SS), the Brief Perceived Ethnic Discrimination Questionnaire - School and Work discrimination subscale (race-based stigma), and a modified Everyday Discrimination Scale (SI-based stigma).

Multivariable linear regression models predicting GAD-7 and PHQ-8 scores aligned. In both models, the interaction term involving race-based stigma and SS was statistically significant (B = -0.12, p < 0.001 and B = -0.11, p < 0.001 for GAD-7 and PHQ-4 models respectively). Interactions between SS and SI-based stigma were non-significant.

 Findings supported the hypothesis that peer-based SS attenuates the negative impact of race-based. Peers can provide emotional, informational, or tangible assistance during times of stress. They can also foster a sense of belongingness and supplement individual coping abilities. Findings suggest that community or peer-based interventions that enhance social connectedness and catalyze meaningful social interactions may be leveraged to address mental health disparities among YSMMOC. Implications for the future study of intersectional stigma and resilience are also discussed.