GPs understanding of how depression affects gay and HIV positive men

Abstract

Background: This article explores qualitative descriptions of how a group of Australian general practitioners understand the relationship between depression, gender, and sexuality in their gay male patients, including gay men who are HIV negative and those who are HIV positive.

Methods: Thematic analysis of 16 semistructured qualitative interviews with GPs who prescribe s100 HIV medications in Sydney, Adelaide and a rural coastal town in New South Wales, Australia.

Results: Recurrent themes regarding how depression affects the gay men these GPs see in their practices in comparison with heterosexual men included: differences in seeking help and accepting treatment; and similarities in emotional expression, overuse of alcohol and recreational drugs, and excessive time spent on work. Issues that complicated the management of depression in these populations included aging, sexual dysfunction, social isolation, loss of family and friendship networks, and poverty.

Discussion: General practitioners with less experience in treating gay and HIV positive men can benefit from these insights to ensure that depression is accurately detected and effectively treated.