Social Support, Loneliness, Depressive Symptoms, and High-Risk Sexual Behaviors of Middle-Aged Hispanic Men Who Have Sex With Men

Middle-aged and older Hispanic men who have sex with men (HMSM) are at risk of health disparities related to HIV infection risk. This study explored the effects of social support, loneliness, depressive symptoms, and sexual risk behaviors on middle-aged and older HMSM, which may result in HIV infection. A sample of 150 South Floridian HMSM, ages 40-65 years, completed instruments that measured social support, loneliness, depressive symptoms, and sexual behaviors. Participants who engaged in sex with a person living with HIV or unknown HIV status or those who had unprotected receptive anal sex reported decreased social support and higher levels of loneliness and depressive symptoms. Results of this study highlight the importance of addressing the intersection of mental health and sexual risk behaviors of middle-aged and older HMSM when developing behavioral interventions aimed at reducing sexual risk behaviors.