MENTAL HEALTH BURDEN IN URBAN POPULATIONS: SOCIOECONOMIC DETERMINANTS AND ACCESS TO CARE IN DEVELOPING HEALTH SYSTEMS

Abstract

Mental health disorders represent a growing public health challenge in rapidly urbanizing regions, particularly within developing health systems where socioeconomic inequalities and limited access to care persist. This study investigates the mental health burden in urban populations, with a specific focus on socioeconomic determinants and barriers to healthcare access. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed, involving 384 urban respondents selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire incorporating validated mental health screening tools and measures of socioeconomic status and healthcare accessibility. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis. Findings reveal a high prevalence of psychological distress, with 63% of participants experiencing mild to severe mental health symptoms. Income level, employment status, and education emerged as significant predictors of mental health outcomes, with lower socioeconomic status strongly associated with higher psychological distress. Regression analysis indicated that socioeconomic factors collectively explained 58% of the variance in mental health status. Additionally, major barriers to mental healthcare access included high treatment costs, limited-service availability, stigma, and lack of awareness. The study concludes that mental health in urban populations is deeply influenced by structural socioeconomic inequalities and systemic healthcare access barriers. Strengthening primary healthcare integration, improving affordability, and addressing social determinants are essential for reducing the urban mental health burden in developing health systems.