Stigma, discrimination, and resilience: experiences of immigrants and refugees living with HIV amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the mental and psychosocial well-being of immigrants and refugees living with HIV (IRLHIV) amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Alberta, Canada. Design/methodology/approach This study used a mixed-methods approach. A cross-sectional survey ( n = 124) was administered for the quantitative part of the study, and a photovoice ( n = 13) was used for the qualitative part of the study. Findings The analysis generated four major themes: 1) experience of systemic/institutional oppression, 2) manifestation of HIV-related stigma, 3) stressors of mental well-being, and 4) resilience to cope with life situations. Research limitations/implications The study collected data from a small sample size in the province of Alberta in Canada and thus may not be generalized to other provinces. Practical implications This paper stresses the integration of mental well-being and psychosocial support with HIV services and interventions, including those led by community organizations, must be the key priority actions among policymakers and social actors. Originality/value The authors confirm that this work is original and has not been published elsewhere, nor is it currently under consideration for publication elsewhere.