Understanding Mental Health Challenges and Associated Risk Factors in Densely Populated Communities
Submission: 01 November 2025 | Acceptance: 20 February 2026 | Publication: 09 March 2026
1Dr. Syed Aqeel Akbar Shah Gillani, 2Dr. Attaullah Bangulzai, 3Dr. Ambica Devi, 4Taimoor Ghori, 5Khurram Ali, 6Marwa Riaz
1AP. BMC. 2Associate Professor. BMC. 3Factuality BMC. 4PIMS Islamabad. 5PIMS Islamabad. 6UHS Lahore
ABSTRACT:
Background: Mental health issues have become a significant public health concern, especially in densely populated urban areas where stressors like overcrowding, limited resources, and socio-economic disparities are prevalent. Understanding the burden and associated risk factors in such environments is critical for developing effective interventions.
Aim: The study aimed to explore the burden and identify the risk factors contributing to mental health issues in densely populated areas.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Fauji Foundation Hospital over a 12-month period from October 2023 to September 2024. The study included 80 participants residing in densely populated urban regions. Data were collected through structured interviews using standardized mental health assessment tools, including the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS). Risk factors such as socio-economic status, living conditions, and access to healthcare services were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the prevalence and associations between risk factors and mental health outcomes.
Results: The study revealed that 62.5% of the participants experienced moderate to severe mental health issues, with anxiety being the most prevalent (38.7%), followed by depression (31.2%). Key risk factors identified included low socio-economic status (p < 0.05), poor housing conditions (p < 0.01), and limited access to mental health services (p < 0.05). Women were disproportionately affected, comprising 55% of those with severe mental health issues. Participants with higher levels of education reported lower rates of mental health problems compared to those with primary education or less (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: The findings highlighted a substantial burden of mental health issues in densely populated areas, with socio-economic disparities, inadequate living conditions, and limited access to healthcare being major contributing factors. Addressing these determinants through community-based interventions and enhanced healthcare accessibility is crucial for mitigating the mental health crisis in such settings. Keywords: Mental health, densely populated areas, socio-economic status, anxiety, depression, risk factors.