The Role of Family Dynamics, Health Literacy, and Community Support in Shaping Mental Well-Being: The Mediating Effect of Social Stigma in Urban Pakistan

Abstract

This study explores the role of family dynamics, health literacy, and community support in shaping mental well-being, with social stigma examined as a mediating factor in the urban context of Pakistan. Mental health remains an under-addressed dimension of public health, particularly in developing countries where social stigma creates barriers to seeking care. The primary objectives of the research are to assess the direct influence of family dynamics, health literacy, and community support on mental well-being, and to determine the mediating effect of social stigma in this relationship. A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed, targeting urban populations across major cities in Pakistan, with data collected from 300 respondents through a structured questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale. Statistical analyses, including regression and mediation tests, were conducted to establish relationships among the variables. Findings indicate that supportive family dynamics, higher health literacy, and strong community networks significantly contribute to better mental well-being, while social stigma partially mediates these relationships by weakening the positive effects of these factors. The study highlights that reducing stigma is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of family and community-based interventions. These insights provide valuable implications for public health policy and urban mental health programs in Pakistan, underscoring the need for integrated strategies that combine awareness, literacy, and social inclusion initiatives to strengthen mental well-being.