Prospective study on impact of stressors in psychological stress among working individuals

Abstract

Objective: The stress is an emotional condition in which individual experiences strain/ pressure. In this study we attempted to study the effect of various stressors on the mental health of working men and women and also categorised the stress levels among the study subjects. Methods: This was a prospective observational study conducted among working men and women. The study included 377 subjects who were in the age group of 20-65 years. A well formatted questionnaire was employed and the severity of stressors was assessed by using Holmes and Rahe scale. Results: Among the total subjects surveyed, 202 were identified to be males (53.58%) and 175 were females (46.42%). The five major stressful events among males were found to be change in work responsibilities (50.49%), change in financial status (47.02%), change in sleeping habits (42.07%), major holiday (37.62%), and revision of personal habits (35.64%). Whereas, the major stressful events among females were sleeping habits (45%), change in work responsibilities (38%), change in family members health (37.71%), change in financial status (33.71%) and change in no. of family gatherings (32%). Conclusion: This study concluded that working individuals were at increased risk of developing psychological stress. The various stressors were identified which plays a key role in imparting stress. Working individuals are suggested for maintaining healthy mental condition by performing regular yoga, exercise and healthy diet. Immediate medical care is suggested for those who are experiencing severe stress to avoid future life crises.