Work

Development and Feasibility of “Towards the Sun”: A Digital Salutogenic Intervention to Enhance Sense of Coherence and Health Outcomes Among Newly Diagnosed HIV-Positive MSM

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Aim: To develop and conduct a preliminary evaluation of a digital salutogenic intervention-"Towards the Sun"-aimed at enhancing sense of coherence (SOC) and improving health outcomes among newly diagnosed HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods: The initial intervention draft was developed using the systematic Intervention Mapping (IM) process, informed by preliminary research, literature review, and evidence-based needs assessment. Two rounds of expert panel review were then conducted to refine the draft, followed by a feasibility assessment among newly diagnosed HIV-positive MSM. Results: The final digital intervention consisted of a five-stage, eight-week program, focusing on stress management, resource activation, and meaning exploration to strengthen the three dimensions of SOC. After review by 8 experts, the mean importance ratings of the intervention items were all above 4 and the coefficients of variation (CV) were less than 0.20, indicating consensus. A pilot study involving 7 newly diagnosed MSM demonstrated feasibility: SOC-13 scores increased, levels of stress and depression decreased, and participants reported high satisfaction with the overall content, especially the modules on self-acceptance and resource orientation. Conclusion: This digital salutogenic intervention demonstrated good feasibility, user acceptance, and preliminary effectiveness among newly diagnosed HIV-positive MSM. As a strengths-based and innovative digital solution, it warrants further validation and dissemination in larger samples and randomized controlled designs. Reporting Guidelines: The study followed the TIDieR (Template for Intervention Description and Replication) Checklist.

Source: HIV/AIDS - Research and Palliative Care

DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s545278

Authors: Mimi Zhai, Yamin Li, Jianhai Long, Yunxia Li, Xianyang Lei