Comparative Analysis of Stress Level and Mental Well-Being in Rural and Urban Residents

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps to determine how we handle stress. The current study aimed to examine stress levels and mental well-being among rural and urban residents. This study compares stress levels and mental well-being between rural and urban residents, considering socio-demographic factors such as gender, employment, and marital status. A sample of 294 participants (166 rural, 128 urban) was selected through convenient sampling. The Perceived Stress Scale and Psychological Well-being Scale were used to assess mental health outcomes. Statistical analyses included independent sample t-tests and correlation analyses to examine differences and relationships among variables. Findings revealed a negative correlation between stress and mental well-being. Rural residents reported higher mental well-being compared to urban counterparts (t=0.5, p=.01), while urban residents exhibited higher stress levels (t=9.5, p=.01). Gender differences were observed, with rural males and females scoring higher on mental well-being (t=5.7, p=.02) and urban males and females experiencing greater stress (t=9.6, p=.02). Married individuals had higher well-being (t=8.6, p=.02), whereas unmarried individuals higher on stress (t=0.4, p=.02). Employed individuals reporting better well-being (t=0.5, p=.03), while unemployed individuals exhibited higher stress (t=3.5, p=.02). The study highlights the significant impact of residential environment and socio-demographic factors on stress and well-being. These findings emphasize the need for tailored mental health interventions, especially for urban populations experiencing high-stress levels.