On being gay in Nigeria: Discrimination, mental health distress, and coping

Higher rates of mental health problems are reported among men who have sex with men (MSM) compared to heterosexual men, and this has been partly attributed to the discriminatory experiences they face. This study aimed to explore factors associated with poor mental health in MSM resident in Nigeria. Twenty MSM were recruited through a non-governmental organization working with the MSM community in Nigeria. In-depth interviews were conducted using a guide developed for the study. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using grounded theory. Sources of stress for Nigerian MSM include concerns about security and discrimination, needing to conceal their sexual orientation, and homophobia among health care providers. MSM in Nigeria face stress that has implications for their mental health. There is a need to provide mental health care accessible by community members, and to mitigate factors that also cause stress for MSM in Nigeria. Recommended interventions include educating health care providers about the harmful effects of homophobia and training peer counsellors to provide basic psychological support.