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Published in: International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction 6/2023

07-06-2022 | Human Immunodeficiency Virus | Original Article

Understanding the Service Needs and Preferences of Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Use Crystal Methamphetamine in British Columbia, Canada: a Qualitative Study

Authors: K. Fulcher, G. Berlin, K. Taylor, A. Wells, T. Nguyen, D. Moore, M. Hull, N. J. Lachowsky

Published in: International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction | Issue 6/2023

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Abstract 

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) use crystal methamphetamine at higher rates than the general population, often in a sexual context. Some require support for problematic methamphetamine use. Health services are available for this population, but little information is available on how gbMSM who use methamphetamine view these supports. We explored the perspectives of gbMSM who used methamphetamine regarding available and desired treatment, support services, and resources to inform improvements to these services in British Columbia, Canada. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 33 participants and used thematic analysis to identify participants’ needs and preferences regarding treatment and services. Participants desired services that incorporated peers and providers with similar lived experience, tailored to their specific needs, including addressing overall mental health. The findings indicate that making culturally competent adjustments related to sexuality to provide gbMSM-specific treatment and integrating peer support would better serve gbMSM who use methamphetamine. Mental health and substance use should be addressed simultaneously.
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Metadata
Title
Understanding the Service Needs and Preferences of Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Use Crystal Methamphetamine in British Columbia, Canada: a Qualitative Study
Authors
K. Fulcher
G. Berlin
K. Taylor
A. Wells
T. Nguyen
D. Moore
M. Hull
N. J. Lachowsky
Publication date
07-06-2022
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction / Issue 6/2023
Print ISSN: 1557-1874
Electronic ISSN: 1557-1882
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-022-00848-4

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