ABSTRACT
Research into the mental health of gay men, as opposed to research into sexual orientation, has been somewhat limited. The lack of standardised monitoring of sexual identity in clinical episode statistics or suicide audits and the challenge in sampling a population with a historical distrust of psychological services have also contributed to the lack of a peer review evidence base. The Council of Representatives of the American Psychological Association has passed a resolution affirming four basic principles with regard to treatments to alter sexual orientation, so-called conversion or reparative therapies. Being diagnosed with HIV is a significant life event and the reality is that HIV still disproportionately affects gay men in most Western countries. It is important that therapists, clinicians and commissioners consider how services are provided to encourage access for gay men and ensure that they receive treatment in a non-judgmental, supportive context.
