Peer-Led Program to Reduce Loneliness and Depression in Older Gay Men with HIV

This trial is testing a new peer-led program called Bridge to Belonging, designed specifically for older gay and bisexual men living with HIV who experience loneliness or depression. The program combines friendship-building skills training with peer mentoring and connections to LGBTQ+-affirming community services like meal programs and support groups. The goal is to help participants build stronger social connections, reduce stigma-related barriers, and feel less isolated.

Older gay and bisexual men living with HIV experience depression and loneliness at much higher rates than other groups, often due to stigma and social isolation. Many of these men don't access available community services because they fear discrimination or face barriers to getting there, so this program was designed to help bridge that gap and support them in connecting with welcoming, affirming communities.