Income disparity and mental wellbeing among adults in semi-urban and rural areas: the mediating role of social capital (sav_File)

Mental illness is rising worldwide and is more prevalent among older population. Among others, socioeconomic status particularly income has a bearing on the prevalence of mental health. However, little is known about its underlying mechanism that explains the association between income and mental health. Hence, this study seeks to examine the mediating effect of social capital on the association between income and mental illness namely depression, anxiety, and stress. A cross-sectional data consisting of 6651 respondents aged 55 years and above was used in this study. Information on individual’s sociodemographic, social capital and mental illness was collected using a community-based health survey. A validated tool known as the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale – 21 items (DASS-21) was applied to examine mental illness namely depression, anxiety, and stress. The Karlson, Holm and Breen (KHB) method was employed to assess the intervening role of social capital on the association between income and mental illness. Results of the study showed that those who disagreed in trust within community had the highest partial mediation percentage. Those who disagreed in reciprocity, however, had the lowest partial mediation percentage that explained the positive association between the middle 40% (M40) of the income group and depression, anxiety, and stress. Overall, the study suggests the need to increase the level of trust and attachment within society to curb the occurrence of depression and anxiety.