The HIV epidemic in Trinidad and Tobago is primarily heterosexual, fueled by a high level of risky sex, gender inequality, and
alcohol and drug use; however, the influence of alcohol and drugs has been neglected in the literature. Research shows that
current HIV prevention approaches have failed to substantially impact sexual behavior change. This may be so because they
do not incorporate a comprehensive understanding of the sociocultural factors underlying sexual behavior. There is an urgent
need to understand how socially accepted patterns of alcohol and drug use contribute to sexual behaviors and HIV risk in
Trinidad and Tobago. Moreover, specialized, evidence-based interventions are needed for HIV-infected substance abusers.
Using an adaptation of the cognitive behavioral stress management (CBSM) protocol, this intervention project aimed to assess
effectiveness in reducing relapse and risky behaviors among recovering HIV-infected substance abusers in Trinidad and Tobago.