Physical Health Problems Relationship with Depression, Anxiety, and Stress among the Tea Garden Workers in Assam

Description

Page: 97-101

Kanchan Devi and Nutankumar S. Thingujam (Department of Psychology, Tripura University, Agartala, Tripura)

Assam is a scenic northeastern state renowned for its extensive tea gardens, production, and exportation to different national and international countries. Within this scenic backdrop resides a vital and unique community-the tea garden workers of Assam. Their daily lives revolve around the meticulous process of tea leaf plucking, along with all other works like maintenance of the tea garden, factory work, etc, where physical health and mental health are closely associated with the productivity of the laborers. The purpose of the study is to check the relationship between physical health and mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and stress among the tea garden workers in Assam. The sample consists of 200 tea garden workers, selected randomly from the target population, whose ages ranged from 18-60 years. A random sampling technique was used for this study. Socio-Demographic Data Sheet (Devi, 2023); The Physical Health Questionnaire (Schat et al., 2005); and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (Lovibond & Lovibond, 1993) were administered. Pearson’s correlation analysis indicated that there is a positive correlation between physical health and depression, anxiety, and stress among the tea garden workers in Assam. The study indicates the need for integrated health-related interventions. Working conditions of the workers, healthcare accessibility, and implementing workplace mental health programs can be focused by the government, policymakers, and employers should focus on improving physical and psychological health. Quality of life, overall well-being of the tea garden workers, and productivity can double because this approach can reduce stress if Community health programs and group counseling sessions can be introduced.