Work

Association between psychological distress and health risk behaviours among youth in Karachi

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To determine the frequency of psychological distress and its association with health risk behaviours among youth in an urban setting. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2023 at the Indus University of Health Sciences, Karachi, and comprised individuals of either gender aged 15-24 years. Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler 10+ scale and health risk behaviours were evaluated using a structured questionnaire covering dietary habits, drug abuse, hygiene, physical activity, tobacco use, violence, and unintentional injury. Data was analysed using SPSS 26. RESULTS: Of the 455 individuals approached, 391(85.9%) were included; 237(68.9%) females and 107(31.1%) males. The median age of the participants was 21 years (interquartile range: 19-22 years). The overall median score for psychological distress was 24 (interquartile range: 19-30), with 285(72.9%) participants reporting psychological distress. Psychological distress had significant association with mother's education (adjusted odds ratio: 0.28, 95% confidence interval: 0.1-0.77) and university bullying (adjusted odds ratio: 8.01, 95% confidence interval: 2.4-26.71). Conclusion: The prevalence of psychological distress among the young subjects was high. Efforts aimed at addressing bullying in educational settings is critical for mitigating psychological distress.

Source: Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association

DOI: 10.47391/jpma.22323

Authors: Nourina, Aiesha Ishaque

Institution: Indus Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Mental Health Treatment and Access

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $650