Gendered Racial Microaggressions Associated with Depression Diagnosis among Black Women Living with HIV

Abstract

Black women are disproportionately impacted by HIV and depression has been linked to negative HIV outcomes. Little attention has been given to social/structural factors that may drive depression among Black women living with HIV (BWLWH), including discrimination and gendered racial microaggressions (GRM). One hundred BWLWH completed measures on GRM, race- and HIV-related discrimination, and depressive symptoms, as well as a clinical interview for major depressive episode (MDE). GRM and race- and HIV-related discrimination were significantly associated with depressive symptoms and increased likelihood of MDE, but only GRM contributed uniquely in associations with both. Interventions targeting depression among BWLWH should address GRM and race- and HIV-related discrimination.