mHealth in China

Faculty:

Countries:

Collaborators:

  • Chongqing Medical University

Start Date:

End Date:

  • Ongoing

mHealth in China

In many countries around the world, men who have sex with men (MSM) experience stigma, discrimination and violence due to their sexual minority status and are at an increased risk for psychological distress, mental health disorders, suicidal ideation, suicide and substance use disorders. Although little research has been conducted on the mental health status of MSM in China, existing studies have found high rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and attempted suicide. Mental health services have been found to significantly improve mental health outcomes among MSM in China, however utilization of services remains extremely low. In order to achieve this objective, we will conduct an online survey with 300 MSM to assess mental health status, factors contributing to mental health status, mental health treatment utilization, and preferences for interventions that could help MSM improve mental health outcomes. The online survey will assess the following: depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, sexual minority stigma (perceived, experienced, internalized), social support (including friends and family), identity conflict, violence, self-esteem, demographic characteristics (marital status, age, sexual orientation, migrant status, time living in Chongqing, etc.), and mental health service availability, utilization and preferences. Scales that have been translated and used in other studies with MSM in China will be included when possible. There is a pressing need to understand factors contributing to poor mental health among MSM and develop interventions that improve mental health outcomes for this highly marginalized population. The objective of this study is to determine the mental health status of MSM living in Chongqing, factors contributing to mental health status, mental health treatment utilization, and preferences for interventions that could improve mental health outcomes among MSM.

Last updated on January 10, 2018