Stress Management Techniques And Their Impact On Health Outcomes In The Population Of Bahawalpur: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background of Study: Stress represents an increasing public health concern, exerting substantial effects on physical and psychological health. Region undergoing urbanization comprising Bahawalpur, Pakistan, contributing to elevated psychosocial stress as a result of  socio-economic transformations and insufficient access to mental health care services.
Objective: The objective of the study to identify and assess prevalent stress management practices and to examine their association with perceived stress levels and health outcomes among the adult population of Bahawalpur.
Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional mixed methods approach and employed involving 600 adult’s population aged 18–65 years with stress level was assessed by Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), copying strategies were assessed using Coping Strategy Inventory (CSI) and in addition semi-structured interviews were employed to explore participant’s experiences and perspectives. Data analysis of quantitative measures was performed using descriptive statistics, regression analysis and correlation whereas thematically analysis was employed to interpret the qualitative data.
Results: A majority of participants 86% of participants exhibited moderate to high perceived stress levels. The primary stress management approach reported by participants was reliance on social support 78%, spiritual/religious practices 66% and physical activity 54%. Participants employing adaptive coping strategies reporting significantly reduced perceived stress and better health outcomes (p < 0.01), while higher stress level were observed in individuals relying on maladaptive coping strategies (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Stress is widespread among the population and culturally embedded copying strategies contribute to resilience and better health outcomes. Implementing community based, sensitive stress management interventions is critical to promoting population health and resilience.