Prevalence and associated factors of depression symptoms among Vietnamese seafarers: a cross-sectional study

The seafaring profession is physically demanding and perilous, presenting numerous risks that can lead to mental health disorders among seafarers. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms among Vietnamese seafarers. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 423 male seafarers working on 22 ocean freighters that docked at ports in Vietnam, following their voyages at sea from January to December 2023. Direct interviews were held with seafarers on board to identify depressive symptoms and associated factors. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 scale (PHQ-9) was used to evaluate depressive symptoms among the seafarers. The result revealed that 45.2% of participants reported symptoms of depression with 30.0% experiencing mild depression, 12.3% moderate depression, and 3.1% severe depression. Various factors associated significantly with depressive symptoms among the seafarers, which included: non-officer status (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.03 - 2.67); sea time exceeding 9 months (OR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.07 - 3.65); chronic disease (OR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.08 - 3.02); poor sleep quality (OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.39 - 3.21); alcohol abuse (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.09 - 4.27); irregular exercise (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.03 - 2.38); stress from noise (OR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.78 - 4.15); isolation from land (OR = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.31 - 3.24); and emotional stress related to sexual matters (OR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.69 - 3.87). To prevent depression on board, seafarers should engage in regular exercise, adopt healthier lifestyles, and improve awareness of depressive symptoms and mental health issues.