Passion, commitment, and burnout: Experiences of Black gay men working in HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention in Atlanta, GA

Abstract

Background HIV-focused organizations, care providers and research programs often hire Black gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in their efforts to reach highly affected communities. Due to their unique social position within and outside of organizations, Black GBMSM are ideally situated to contribute to HIV care and prevention programming targeting their own communities, but may also be at risk for stress and burnout in these settings. Despite this critical role for Black GBMSM in efforts to end the epidemic, little is known about subjective experiences of Black GBMSM who work in the HIV field. Methods We conducted qualitative interviews with 19 Black GBMSM who were identified as key informants. All were working in community-based organizations, clinical or academic settings in the area of HIV prevention and treatment in Atlanta, Georgia. We used a thematic analysis approach to identify salient themes with respect to the workplace experiences of Black GBMSM as well as the role of their identities in their work in the field. Results Participants discussed: (1) Shared experiences and growth; (2) Work-related stressors; (3) Worker burnout; and (4) Commitment to continue working in the HIV field. On the whole, Black GBMSM derived meaning from their work, and found their intersectional identities to be a strength in fulfilling job duties. At the same time, Black GBMSM described multiple stresses faced as they balanced their personal and professional connections to this work, while also dealing with their own challenges related to discrimination, socioeconomic status, and health. Participants repeatedly described sacrificing their own well-being for the greater good of their communities, highlighting contributors to burnout within and outside of the workplace. Conclusions Our participants derived meaning from their work in the HIV field and were affirmed by professional interactions with other Black GBMSM. At the same time, they also faced work-related and other psychosocial stressors that predisposed them to frustration and burnout. To promote workplace equity and wellness for Black GBMSM, we share recommendations for HIV-focused organizations that employ and serve men in this demographic.

Addressing Traumatizing Environments: A Case Study of the Showing up for Black Power, Liberation, and Healing Initiative

“…31 The pressure to disclose personal information, such as sexual orientation or sexual identity, and fear of doing so is a commonly experienced trauma. 32 These traumas can be compounded when one is a part of the community most affected in addition to providing services to those in their community. 30,32 HIV, White supremacy, anti-Blackness, and Black staff.…”

“…32 These traumas can be compounded when one is a part of the community most affected in addition to providing services to those in their community. 30,32 HIV, White supremacy, anti-Blackness, and Black staff. In the context of HIV in the U.S. South, racialized trauma resulting from White supremacy profoundly shapes traumas perpetuated in the health care system against clients and staff.…”