Abstract

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) are a population with a high prevalence of risk factors for mental health problems. However, studies on MSM in Vietnam often focus on risky behaviors, neglecting depression and related factors. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression according to the DASS-21 scale and identify related factors among MSM attending the Da Nang Center for Disease Control. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study design with total sample selection was employed. Depression was assessed using the DASS-21 scale. Results: The prevalence of depression was 27.6%. Among those with depression, 5.4% had mild symptoms, 18.3% had moderate symptoms, 2.9% had severe symptoms, and 1.0% had very severe symptoms. Occupation and socioeconomic status were significantly associated with depression (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The prevalence of depression among MSM is high. Strengthening interventions to reduce depression in MSM, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds or working in occupations associated with lower income or social stigma, is necessary. Further research is warranted to explore specific factors contributing to depression in this population