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Abstract
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Introduction
Stress is the physical, mental and emotional response to a stress-causing factor or 'stressor; it is the perception of the event that has an implication on subsequent coping and health. Psychosocial stressors in the rural community need to be explored as these have great scope for early intervention. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of perceived stress and identify the causes of psychosocial stress in a rural population.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out among individuals between the age of 30-60 years. Two hundred people were selected by systematic random sampling from a rural community. Validated scale for perceived stress (PSS) was administered and causes of stress were assessed using a structured questionnaire.
Results
The mean score of perceived stress was 16.38 (+ 7.98). The prevalence of perceived stress was found to be 65.5% among the study participants. Belonging to a schedule caste family, female gender, low socio economic status, unemployment, type of employment, and history of presence of comorbid illness were associated significantly with perceived stress. Relationship issues (76%) was the most common stressor in the community followed by financial issues (64%).
Conclusion
The study participants show high prevalence of stress and depression in the community. People should be encouraged to improve stress coping techniques and carry out positive healthbehaviors for coping stress.
Language: en |