The National Centre in HIV Social Research (NCHSRNational Centre in HIV Social Research. Located at the University of NSW in Sydney, NCHSR conducts research which describes and analyses the social understandings, meanings and practices of peoples, institutions and communities in relation to HIV, Hepatitis C and other communicable diseases.) recently released a new report on a three year project which investigated depression among men attending high HIV caseload general practice clinics.
Key findings of the study included that homosexually active men are at high risk of major depression, but that HIV status is not independently associated with major depression. While the relationship between HIV and depression is complex, socio economic hardship and isolation are more significant factors for depression in this group.
The project also found that GPs in high caseload clinics are good at detecting depression in gay men but their ability to provide ideal levels of clinicalPertaining to or founded on observation and treatment of participants, as distinguished from theoretical or basic science. support is compromised by a range of factors such as increasing responsibilities and time pressures in their workplace, and problematic levels of crystal meth use by their patients.
For more information, download a copy of the report from the NCHSR website (PDF) or contact the NCHSR on nchsr@unsw.edu.au, or 02 9385 6776.
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