Exploring gender-specific mental health status and socioeconomic impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on slum dwellers in Khulna City corporation, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 has devastated every aspect of life worldwide, where slum dwellers are particularly vulnerable due to persistent inequities. This study aims to explore the socioeconomic and gender-specific mental health impacts of COVID-19 on slum dwellers. Methodology: Generalized ordered logistic regression with auto-fit was performed to identify predictors of socioeconomic and mental health conditions among the participants. Data analysis was conducted using Stata software, with a 95% confidence interval and p-value less than 0.05. Results: The study found that males who were smokers and lost their jobs during the pandemic were more prone to experience severe mental health problems. Over 60% of females experienced moderate mental health issues due to the use of unimproved sanitation facilities. Moreover, females who received support during the pandemic and lived in areas with fixed garbage disposal had less probability of experiencing severe mental health issues. Conclusion: Implementing community-based initiatives that promote social integration, providing skill-building opportunities, and addressing economic vulnerabilities may significantly improve the mental well-being of this vulnerable community. Collaboration between the Government and stakeholders is essential to address critical needs, such as proper garbage disposal and gender-segregated sanitation facilities, to build a sustainable community.