What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to understand the sociodemographic and psychosocial factors influencing stress among Hajj pilgrims, with a focus on gender differences.

January 24, 2026Open Access

Psychosocial Contradictions in Pilgrim Mental Health: A Gender-stratified Analysis of Stress Determinants During the 2024 Hajj Season in North Sumatra

Puntos clave

This research aims to understand the sociodemographic and psychosocial factors influencing stress among Hajj pilgrims, with a focus on gender differences.
Conducted a cross-sectional survey of 5362 Hajj pilgrims in North Sumatra during the 2024 Hajj season.
Collected data at embarkation sites using structured questionnaires on demographic variables, health behaviors, and psychosocial factors.
Assessed stress levels using the Perceived Stress Scale-10 and performed multivariable logistic regressions, including gender-stratified models.
Males showed higher odds of moderate-to-severe stress compared to females (OR = 1.22).
Middle-aged and older pilgrims faced increased stress risk, especially men.
For females, higher education correlated with greater stress (OR = 1.64).
Marriage served as a protective factor, particularly for males.
Surprisingly, higher life satisfaction (OR = 5.97) and frequent exercise (OR = 1.28) were associated with increased stress levels.

Resumen

Abstract Introduction: The Hajj pilgrimage, while spiritually meaningful, presents numerous psychosocial stressors that can adversely affect pilgrims’ mental health. Gender-specific vulnerabilities remain underexplored in Southeast Asian contexts. This study investigates sociodemographic, behavioral, and psychosocial determinants of stress among Indonesian pilgrims, with a gender-stratified focus. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 5362 Hajj pilgrims from North Sumatra during the 2024 Hajj season. Data were collected at embarkation sites using structured questionnaires assessing demographic variables, health behaviors, and psychosocial factors. Stress levels were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale-10 and dichotomized as mild versus moderate to severe. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regressions were conducted, including gender-stratified models. Results: Males had significantly higher odds of experiencing moderate-to-severe stress than females (odds ratio OR = 1.22, 95% confidence interval CI 1.01–1.46). Middle-aged (40–60 years) and older (>60 years) pilgrims were at elevated stress risk, particularly among men. Among females, higher education was associated with greater stress (OR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.12–2.40). Marriage was a protective factor, more so for males. Surprisingly, both high life satisfaction (OR = 5.97, 95% CI 4.21–8.47) and frequent exercise (OR = 1.28, 95% CI 1.05–1.56) were linked to higher stress levels, defying conventional assumptions. Conclusion: The study highlights the complex and gendered nature of stress among Hajj pilgrims, challenging conventional mental health paradigms. Tailored interventions addressing gender roles, age-specific needs, and culturally embedded expectations are essential. Integrating culturally sensitive, gender- and age-responsive counseling into pre-Hajj programs is crucial to enhancing pilgrim mental well-being.

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