Socio-Demographic Influences on Perceived Stress and Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Multinational Study

The present cross-sectional multinational study explores the effect of perceived stress during the COVID-19 pandemic on various socio-demographic factors, including gender, marital status, age groups, work abilities, social activities, and family relationships from Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Pakistan from April to July 2022. This cross-sectional study investigated perceived stress during the COVID-19 pandemic on various socio-demographic factors, work abilities, social activities, and family relationships. Online questionnaires were distributed to participants in Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Pakistan. Mental health indicators were assessed using the Work and Social Adjustment Scale. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed moderate impairment in working capacity and home management, with a significant effect (r = .565, p < .001). A significant association was observed between gender and engagement in leisure activities such as watching movies, indicating influence on mental well-being (χ2(1, N = 295) = 6.83, p = .009). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed significant differences in commitment to home management across four age groups (adolescent, young adult, adult, and mature adult) (F (3, 294) = 3.887, p = .010). Significant variations were also found in maintaining relationships with family members among different age groups (F (3, 294) = 5.506, p = .001). The findings underscore the association between anxiety and impairment in work and home management activities, and disruptions in leisure activities. These insights highlight the importance of targeted interventions to address mental health challenges during current and future healthcare crises. Further prospective studies are warranted to inform comprehensive intervention strategies and enhance resilience in future global challenges.