Neighborhoods, Networks, Depression, and HIV Risk

The Impact of Neighborhoods, Networks, and Depression on Drug Users' HIV Risk

The goal of this study is to examine how social networks, neighborhood, and depression are related to HIV risk. The intervention is designed to train individuals to cope with feelings of depression or stress as a way to reduce their risk for HIV.

This study included implementation and evaluation of a small group, randomized controlled, phase II intervention to reduce depressive symptoms and HIV risk behaviors among inner city drug users. The intervention included elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression among impoverished individuals, emphasizing depressive cognitions and behaviors theorized to be associated with depression and with HIV risk behaviors among mildly to moderately depressed drug users. In addition, the study examined active drug users' social and environmental pathways to depression and subsequent HIV risk behaviors. Specifically, we will hypothesized mediating/moderating effects of neighborhood characteristics, social network factors, and individual level factors on depressive symptoms and HIV risk behaviors.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. 18-55 years old
2. HIV Risk Behavior:

3a. Injected drugs more than 3 times in the past week OR

3b. Snorted/sniffed heroin or cocaine or smoked crack in the past 6 months AND had 1 of the following sex risks in the past 6 months: i) 2 or more sex partners ii) Had a sex partner who injected drugs iii)Had a sex partner who smoked crack iv) Had a sex partner who was HIV+

4. Willingness to attend group sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Enrolled in another HIV behavioral intervention or depression study in past the 3 years
2. Enrolled in another Lighthouse study in past the 5 years
3. Enrolled in the formative research (Phase 1) or pilot (Phase 2) of the current project.