Relationship between sociodemographics, loss of income, and mental health among two-spirit, gay, bisexual, and queer men in Manitoba during the COVID-19 pandemic

• Published in: PloS one 2022-12, Vol.17 (12)
• Main Authors: Rusty Souleymanov, Sana Amjad, Samantha Moore, Jared Star, Albert McLeod, Michael Payne, Laurie Ringaert, Linda Larcombe, Gayle Restall
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1932-6203
• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278382

This study examined the relationship between loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic and worsening mental health among a sample of 366 Two-Spirit, gay, bisexual, queer (2SGBQ+) men in Manitoba. Data were drawn from a cross-sectional online survey among 2SGBQ+ men in Manitoba. Logistic regression assessed the relationship between sociodemographics, loss of income due to COVID-19 (independent variable) and worsening of mental health (analytic outcome). Among all respondents in the sample (N = 366), 55% indicated worsening of their mental health. In logistic regression, compared to participants who did not experience any loss of income, those who experienced loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic were significantly more likely to report worsening mental health (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 8.32, 95% Confidence Interval[CI] = 3.54–19.54). Compared to participants who self-identified as gay, bisexual-identifying participants were less likely to report worsening mental health (AOR = .35, 95%CI = 0.13–0.96). Finally, as compared to participants who were married or partnered, participants who were dating (AOR = 3.14, 95%CI = 1.60–6.17), single (AOR = 4.08, 95%CI = 1.75–9.52), and separated/divorced/widowed (AOR = 15.08, 95%CI = 2.22–102.51) were all significantly more likely to report experiencing a worsening of mental health due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study highlights the need to develop robust public strategies for sub-populations of 2SGBQ+ men (non-gay identified sexual minorities and 2SGBQ+ men who may be more socially isolated). Specific targeted and tailored public health interventions designed with the unique needs of 2SGBQ+ men in Manitoba may be required to increase their access to socio-economic and mental health supports.