THE MENTAL HEALTH CONSEQUENCES OF URBAN STRESSORS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN KARACHI: A MIXED-METHODS INVESTIGATION

Abstract

High-density urban environments expose individuals to multiple stressors that adversely affect mental health, particularly among young adults. Despite growing concern, limited research has examined the combined effects of urban stressors, perceived stress, anxiety, and depression. This cross-sectional mixed-methods study, conducted in Karachi, Pakistan, investigated the psychological impact of urban stressors on young adults aged 18–30 years, incorporating both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews through an eco-philosophical lens.

Findings revealed significant positive correlations between urban stressors and psychological distress. Financial instability, environmental pollution, and social isolation emerged as key predictors of anxiety and depression. Unemployed participants reported higher stress levels, consistent with previous literature linking economic insecurity to mental health decline. Qualitative insights further contextualized these outcomes, depicting young adults’ lived experiences of economic uncertainty and environmental degradation. Notably, adaptive coping strategies were negatively correlated with psychological distress, underscoring their protective role.

The study emphasizes the need for integrated mental health interventions, socioeconomic support programs, and urban planning policies that mitigate environmental and economic pressures in metropolitan areas. While constrained by self-report bias and cross-sectional design, the findings provide valuable implications for policymakers and mental health practitioners. Future longitudinal research should explore causal pathways and resilience mechanisms that buffer the psychological toll of urban stress.