Stress and Social Support Associations with HIV risk behavior among Severely Mentally Ill, Alcohol and Other Drugs Abusers

Abstract: We analyzed associations between stress, social support and HIV risk behavior among SMI - AOD adults. There is substantial literature linking stressful life event exposure to multiple adverse outcomes. Support networks have been linked to reduced risk behavior which may be particularly important for SMI adults. Few studies have explored these relationships among SMI - AOD adults, thus we examine them in the current study. Methods: Participants were 127 male, 161 female, culturally diverse SMI - AOD adults in an NIH-funded HIV prevention program (n=288). Measures included: SNIS; LES; and RBS. Descriptive, correlational and hierarchical regression procedures explored relationships among stress, support and risk behavior. Results: Participant average age 39.79 (SD = 10.23), and education 11.42 years (SD = 2.74). Hierarchical regression using a four block design (demographics; stress; social support; and stress x support) and a log10 transformation revealed stress and support were significant predictors of HIV risk behavior (R2 = 0.11, F = (9, 231) = 3.02, P < .01). HIV risk behavior was significantly associated with stress (â = .142, p = .030) and support network size (â = .142, p = .029). Conclusions/Implications: Significant positive associations were found among stress, support and HIV risk behavior, although stress-buffering relationship was not supported. More negative life events and larger support networks were associated with greater sex risk. Current findings suggest the need to carefully examine the qualities of support networks that may increase risk. Findings of significant links at baseline warrant further review of these factors longitudinally.