UCSF

AbstractParticipants ranged in age from 19-65 years. The majority described their gender as male (93%) with the remaining identifying as other. Black participants comprised the majority of the sample (73%), with Latine/o/xs accounted for 25%. The quarantine measures during the pandemic exacerbated loneliness among gender and sexual minorities at risk for HIV. The impact of loneliness on mental health lingers and it is evident by discussions on social anxiety and depression. Many engaged in virtual social gatherings to foster community however it proved difficult considering limited technological resources and the intrinsic need for physical contact and proximity. Desire for social and sexual intimacy were also aspects that increased “high-risk behaviors,” such as engaging in sex utilizing hookup apps. Participants also withdrew themselves from their social circles during the racial protests as it was a personally and socially painful time for many participants in the Black and Brown community. In contrast, other participants found the pandemic was a time in which they could reconnect with their loved ones or personally flourished. Lastly, participants also appreciated the freedom of social isolation conditions as they were able to connect with nature or engage in personal reflection and enjoyed their sense of independence/autonomy, however many still experienced loneliness.