Pandemics and consumers' mental well-being.

Area of Science:

• Consumer Psychology
• Public Health
• Sociology

Background:

• Pandemics pose significant threats to global public health.
• Consumer well-being is a critical area of study, especially during crises.
• Mental health impacts of pandemics require deeper investigation within consumer contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the profound effects of pandemics on consumers' mental well-being.
• To extend existing research on pandemics and consumer well-being.
• To identify specific consumer characteristics influencing mental health outcomes during pandemics.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on pandemics and consumer well-being.
• Identification and analysis of consumer characteristics (parenthood, chronic illness, aging, family, religion).
• Conceptual framework development for future research.

Main Results:

• Pandemics have a substantial negative impact on consumer mental well-being.
• Specific demographic and personal characteristics (parenthood, chronic illness, aging, family) are associated with increased vulnerability.
• Religion may serve as a protective factor for mental well-being.

Conclusions:

• Academics and researchers must prioritize understanding and addressing the mental well-being of consumers during and after pandemics.
• Further research is crucial to develop targeted interventions and support systems.
• A call to action for impactful contributions to consumer mental health research.