Urban stressors among slum residents in a megacity in India: A qualitative explorative study

Growing urbanisation, while driving economic growth, has impacts on physical and mental health, with slum populations being disproportionately affected. Previous studies highlight a gap in understanding the factors contributing to higher prevalence of mental health issues in slums. This qualitative study aimed to explore the factors in urban environment and understand its influence on stressful living among adults residing in select slum localities in Bengaluru city.

Twenty-five in-depth interviews were conducted with slum residents aged 30-60 years. The data were analysed using predefined themes, categorised into physical and social urban environments, and further analysed to identify subthemes.

Key urban stressors identified in the social domain included financial strain, employment issues, and concerns around education. In the physical domain, housing conditions and traffic issues emerged as important urban stressors. Other factors such as healthcare, water, sewage management, neighbourhood conditions, and governance were less universally reported, albeit they were considerable.

This study offers a comprehensive understanding of how physical and social urban environmental factors influence the mental health of individuals living in slums. It underscores the need for a multisectoral approach to urban mental health that prioritises mental well-being, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG-11), to create resilient, sustainable cities.