Geographically-based discrimination is a social determinant of mental health in a deprived or stigmatized area in Japan: A cross-sectional study

► This is the first study to investigate the health risk of discrimination due to geographical place of residence in Japan. ► Geographically-based discrimination was associated with mental health after adjustment for age, socioeconomic status, social relationships and lifestyle factors. ► Geographically-based discrimination was more strongly associated with mental health among highly educated people than among less educated people. ► The present study provided evidence for public health policy and future research in the field of discrimination and health.