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Mamtuti Panneh's presentation explores the relationship between violence, mental health, and HIV risks, with a focus on vulnerable populations such as female sex workers. The discussion begins by defining key terminologies related to sex work, violence, and mental health. The presentation covers topics such as violence and mental health among female sex workers, the association between HIV and violence/mental health, and the role of the stress response system. Globally, female sex workers face multiple challenges including poverty, violence, poor mental health, substance misuse, and HIV risks. In Kenya, research indicates high levels of violence experienced by female sex workers, with HIV rates significantly higher compared to the general population of women. The vulnerability of female sex workers to violence is attributed to factors such as work environment, stigmatization, criminalization, gender inequality, and discrimination. Poverty, violence, and substance misuse are identified as factors that increase the risk of mental health challenges among female sex workers. Baseline findings from a case study in Kenya reveal a high prevalence of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among female sex workers. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is identified as a significant risk factor for poor mental health, and IPV is also associated with suicidal thoughts. The presentation discusses sex work-related risks, including violence from police and community members, as well as concerns about HIV, which impact mental health. A recently published paper is mentioned, linking adverse childhood experiences, recent violence, and increased alcohol use to anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The pathways through which violence and mental health contribute to HIV risks are explored, including higher-risk sexual behaviors and changes in the immune system. Emotional violence is highlighted as an independent factor associated with HIV, beyond sexual violence. The activation of the stress response system, specifically the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical axis (HPA axis) and the release of cortisol, is explained as potential mechanisms linking violence, mental health, and immune system function. Mamtuti's PhD research aims to investigate the relationship between cortisol, violence, mental health, and immune system function for a better understanding of these pathways. In conclusion, the presentation emphasizes the vulnerability of female sex workers to violence and mental health challenges, and calls for interventions addressing poverty, gender-based violence, and mental health among vulnerable populations.

Lynn Hendricks gave a presentation on enabling environments for young women living with HIV to thrive. She conducted a four-year research study with young women in Cape Town who were born with perinatal HIV infections. Many children born HIV-positive may not know their status until they are older, and some may lose parents or siblings to HIV. Lynn discussed the mental health challenges faced by young women living with HIV, including loneliness, depression, and suicide. Internalized stigma, broken relationships, and social impact affect adherence to medication and self-perception. Young women with perinatal infections face unique challenges due to their chronic condition, such as thinking about life and death at a young age. Medication side effects, increased risk of infectious diseases, and mental health concerns are factors they deal with. Stigma plays a significant role in adherence to medication and impacts self-esteem and relationships. The study aimed to envision enabling environments for young women with HIV and focused on understanding adherence and exploring research methods with vulnerable populations. The study utilized co-creation and participatory methods, involving participants in activities like videography. The complex findings were captured in a movie called "More Than a Pill," which highlights the multifaceted experiences of young women living with HIV. Lynn encouraged viewers to watch the movie for a deeper understanding of the research findings.