Livelihood vulnerability, food insecurity, salinity and their effects on mental health well-being among people of southwest coastal region of Bangladesh

Purpose Coastal communities in Bangladesh are increasingly affected by environmental and socioeconomic stressors like salinity intrusion, livelihood vulnerability and food insecurity, all of which may have profound implications for mental health. This study aims to investigate the concurrent effects of these stressors on poor mental health and well-being among individuals residing in the southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach The methodology for this study uses the International Panel on Climate Change-defined Livelihood Vulnerability Index. The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale was also used. Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify significant associations between poor mental health and variables including salinity extent, food insecurity, livelihood vulnerability, income level, gender and access to antenatal care. Findings The analysis revealed that individuals exposed to high salinity (AOR = 23.49; p < 0.001), severe food insecurity (AOR = 2.24; p = 0.015) and high livelihood vulnerability (AOR = 2.05; p = 0.046) were significantly associated with poor mental health. Other key predictors included low income, female gender, lack of antenatal care and absence of NGO support. Practical implications This study highlights a strong association between environmental stressors and poor mental health in coastal Bangladesh. Interventions aimed at improving mental well-being in these regions must adopt an integrated approach, addressing environmental challenges alongside socioeconomic vulnerabilities. Originality/value This innovative method advances a more thorough investigation of the relationship between livelihood vulnerability and mental health brought on by salinity among residents of Bangladesh’s southwest coastal region.