Peer Counselling to Reduce Psychological Distress and Exposure to Violence Among Sexual and Gender Minorities

Study participants in this arm will attend six weekly peer-led sessions, each approximately 90-minutes in length, designed to empower them to make decisions about their lives and build resilience. PM+ is a psychological intervention developed by the World Health Organization, based on principles of cognitive behavioural therapy. It includes components such as understanding adversity and psychoeducation on mental health, managing stress, problem-solving, behavioural activation, and strengthening social support. The PM+ model in this study is augmented with additional elements, including self-empowerment strategies, motivational interviewing, psychoeducation on intimate partner and community violence, mindful meditation and safety planning. Participants will also be introduced to best practices and lessons learned that support danger assessments and avoidance of risk of future violence. The intervention aims to improve participants' overall circumstances and mental well-being.

"These 11-monthly peer-led group sessions are designed to enhance social support, build resilience, and reinforce the application of augmented PM+ strategies in daily life. They provide a safe space for reflection and mutual encouragement among study participants. The group sessions focus on managing stress, strengthening self-regulation, building self-esteem, fostering social connectedness, and promoting positive identity development.~Group sessions involve identifying and discussing the barriers and facilitators related to practicing slow breathing techniques, problem-solving strategies, maintaining physical activity, navigating intimate partner and community violence, understanding social support networks, and planning for safety in various situations faced by sexual and gender minorities."