Social Correlates of Recent Suicidal Ideation Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Greater Tokyo.

Introduction: Suicide is a major public health problem in Japan, where mortality rates are among the highest in the world. Globally, men who have sex with men (MSM) report elevated rates of suicidal ideation and attempts compared to their heterosexual peers. However, there is a paucity of research on suicidal ideation among MSM in Japan, where MSM continue to experience significant stigma and discrimination, and where resources are limited for MSM-specific mental health support. Methods: This study examined the prevalence and correlates of recent suicidal ideation among MSM in Greater Tokyo. We recruited 1,657 MSM for an anonymous, online, cross-sectional survey posted on social mobile applications popular with MSM in Japan (e.g., Grindr, 9Monsters) from November 2015 through January 2016. Results: Recent suicidal ideation, measured as suicidal thoughts in the preceding two weeks, was reported by almost one-third (31%) of participants. Participants who reported unemployment or part-time employment (compared to full-time employment) and knowing a heterosexual person who restricted their freedom or excluded them from a group had higher odds of suicidal ideation. Being aged 46 years or older, reporting good health, and having a medium or high level of access to social capital networks with other MSM were associated with reduced odds of suicidal ideation. Conclusions and Policy Implications: Our findings indicate that suicide prevention interventions with MSM in Greater Tokyo and similar urban settings in Japan should work to enhance MSM social networks as a protective factor; attend to employment concerns, particularly in younger MSM; and augment current efforts to address stigma and discrimination in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]