Determinants of consulting a physician for mental distress in Japan: Analyses of the general population with a particular focus on the moderate distress group.

Aim: Early detection and intervention for mental disorders are essential to prevent worsening symptoms. This study investigates the socioeconomic determinants of consulting a physician for mental distress among the general Japanese population, with a particular focus on individuals with moderate distress, a group often overlooked in early intervention strategies. Methods: We analyzed data from the 2019 Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions, a nationally representative dataset by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. The study included 2055 individuals aged 20-64 years. Consulting a physician for mental distress was defined based on self-reported consultations about worries or distress. Socioeconomic factors such as age, gender, employment, household income, smoking, and drinking status were examined using binary logistic regression, with mental distress levels measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6) as a key independent variable. Results: Among respondents, 6.4% reported consulting a physician for mental distress. Higher levels of mental distress were significantly associated with increased consultation, while moderate distress showed no significant association compared to low distress. Younger individuals, women, employed persons, and drinkers were less likely to consult a physician. These findings indicate a potential care gap among moderate distress individuals who recognize their distress but do not seek professional help. Conclusion: To address the unmet needs of individuals with moderate mental distress, flexible and accessible support channels such as anonymous consultations via social media and workplace mental health programs are urgently needed. Tailored interventions could enhance early help-seeking and prevent symptom escalation. Future research should explore targeted outreach strategies to close this support gap.