The demographic characteristics of people living with HIV/AIDS (PHAs) in Canada are increasingly diverse. Despite literature suggesting a potentially heightened mental health burden borne by racialized immigrant, refugee, and non- status PHAs (IRN- PHAs), researchers have hitherto paid insufficient attention to whether existing services adequately address this need and how services might be improved. Employing community- based research methodology involving PHAs from five ethnoracial groups in Toronto, Ontario, this study explored IRN- PHAs’ mental health service- seeking behaviors, service utilization experiences, and suggestions for service improvements. Results showed that while most IRN- PHAs were proactive in improving their mental health, their attempts to obtain support were commonly undermined by service provider mistreatment, unavailability of appropriate services, and multiple access barriers. A three- pronged approach involving IRN- PHA empowerment, anti- stigma and cultural competence promotion, and greater service integration is proposed for improving IRN- PHAs’ mental health service experience. © Meharry Medical College.

immigrants Services accessibility Mental health Refugees HIV Cultural competence Social stigma Canada

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