On 21 November 2025, a moderate earthquake struck Dhaka, Bangladesh, causing widespread fear and psychological concern in this densely populated city. This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence and determinants of depression, anxiety, and stress among urban residents. A total of 409 adults from the Dhaka North and South City Corporations were surveyed approximately 4 weeks after the event using the validated Bengali version of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS-21). Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression models using backward elimination were performed. Most participants were within normal ranges for depression, anxiety, and stress; however, a considerable proportion experienced elevated psychological symptoms. Anxiety appeared to be the most prominent psychological response, with moderate-to-extremely severe anxiety reported more frequently than corresponding levels of depression and stress. Younger age was significantly associated with higher anxiety and stress scores. Residence in DSCC was consistently associated with lower depression, anxiety, and stress scores compared with DNCC. Participants with strong confidence in protective earthquake actions reported significantly lower psychological distress across all three domains. In contrast, uncertainty regarding evacuation exits and receiving only informal earthquake preparedness information were associated with higher psychological distress. Severe self-reported mental health impact following the earthquake was strongly associated with increased depression, anxiety, and stress scores. Despite limited large-scale physical destruction, the earthquake generated psychological impacts among urban residents. The findings suggest that post-earthquake mental health outcomes were shaped not only by demographic factors but also by preparedness knowledge, perceived control, and structural safety perceptions. Integrating mental health support with comprehensive disaster preparedness strategies targeted to the highest-risk populations is essential to strengthening urban resilience. • Anxiety was the most prominent psychological response among Dhaka residents following the 2025 earthquake. • Younger age was associated with higher anxiety and stress, while lower education was linked to higher anxiety and stress. • Government employment and unemployment were associated with increased anxiety compared with business ownership. • Residence in DSCC and strong confidence in protective actions were associated with lower depression, anxiety, and stress. • Uncertainty about evacuation exits and informal preparedness information were linked to higher psychological distress. • Integrating mental health support with structured earthquake preparedness is essential for strengthening urban resilience.
Rahman et al. (Fri,) studied this question.