Prevalence and factors associated with mental distress among men at higher risk of HIV infection enrolled in an HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis program in Tanga, Tanzania

Mental distress was relatively high among MSM, especially those with low PrEP knowledge, high PrEP stigma, and perceived high HIV risk, while easy condom access lowered the prevalence. Healthcare stakeholders should work to enhance PrEP awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure condom availability. Expanding and integrating mental health services within HIV programming is crucial in achieving the goal of ending the HIV epidemic by 2030.