Depressive symptoms, violence, and discrimination among transgender women during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE.: To examine the frequency of depressive symptoms, gender-based violence, and gender-based discrimination among transgender women (TGW) in Lima, Peru, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS.: Between May and July 2021, the non-governmental organization Socios En Salud conducted a cross-sectional study to assess depressive symptoms, gender-based discrimination and violence among TGW identified from a prior study database and peer referral. Descriptive statistics were used to report frequencies, and an exploratory bivariate analysis was performed to examine associations between depressive symptoms and participants´ characteristics, including experiences of discrimination and violence. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9; gender-based discrimination and violence were measured using adopted instruments.

RESULTS.: A total of 112 participants were included in the study. Most TGW reported depressive symptoms (81.2%), experiences of gender-based violence (83.8%), and experiences of gender-based discrimination (95.5%). The presence of depressive symptoms was associated with experiences of discrimination in healthcare settings (p < 0.046) and with experiences of violence (p < 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS.: A high frequency of depressive symptoms, as well as experiences of gender-based discrimination and violence, was observed among TGW in Lima, Peru, during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, significant associations were identified between these experiences and the presence of depressive symptoms. These findings are consistent with existing evidence on the mental health impact of the pandemic, but also suggest a disproportionate burden among TGW and highlight the urgent need to address the underlying contributing factors.