1. SANIA ABDUL SHAKOOR - BEMS, MSPH, Government College University Faisalabad.
2. Dr. ABID RASHEED - Professor, MBBS, FCPS, PhD (Clinical Medicine), Government College University Faisalabad.
3. ALI SIFTAIN - Lecturer, MSPH, PhD* (Public Health) Government College University Faisalabad.
4. AYYAZ AHMAD - Lecturer, RIT, MSRIT, MSPH, Riphah International University, Faisalabad.
5. SEERAT NOOR - Demonstrator, MIT, Riphah International University, Faisalabad.
6. Dr. NAIMA ASHRAF - Researcher & WMO, MBBS, MSPH, Health and Population Department, Chiniot.
7. ASIFA SATTAR - Lecturer, RIT, MSRIT, MSPH, University of Gujrat.
Background: Political crises and high inflation pose significant threats to public health, yet there is limited empirical data quantifying their combined impact on the general population in Pakistan. This study was conducted to bridge this gap by systematically investigating the human cost of the prevailing political and economic turmoil. Aim: The primary aim of this research was to assess the multifaceted effects of political instability and high inflation on the physical and mental well-being of the general population, and to identify the key pathways through which these crises inflict harm. Methods: A cross-sectional, community-based survey was conducted in Faisalabad, Pakistan. A sample of 400 adult residents was selected using a convenient sampling technique. Data were collected via a structured, self-administered questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, perceptions of the crises, and self-reported physical and mental health outcomes. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify significant associations. Results: The findings reveal a profound and pervasive impact. A significant majority of respondents perceived that political instability had worsened economic conditions (69.3%) and made them feel unsafe (87.5%). Inflation was experienced as a severe burden, forcing 84.8% of the population to cut down on basic necessities like food and healthcare. This widespread hardship translated directly into a public health crisis: 84.8% of respondents reported increased stress and anxiety, 69.3% experienced symptoms of depression, and 84.8% reported physical health complaints such as headaches and fatigue. Inferential analysis confirmed a strong statistical association between forgoing basic needs and experiencing psychological distress (p < .001). Furthermore, lower-income households were disproportionately affected, facing significantly greater barriers to healthcare access (p < .001). The act of relocating due to instability was also significantly linked to worse mental health outcomes (p < .001). Conclusion: This study concludes that political instability and inflation are not merely economic issues but are direct and interconnected drivers of a widespread public health crisis in Pakistan. The research empirically demonstrates a clear pathway where perceived political failure and economic strain lead to material hardship, which in turn causes severe psychological distress and physical health deterioration. The disproportionate impact on low-income groups exacerbates existing social inequalities. These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated, evidence-based policy responses that address both the socioeconomic roots and the health consequences of the crises, with targeted support for the most vulnerable populations.
Political Crisis, Inflation, Mental Health, Physical Well-being, Public Health, Socioeconomic Stress, Healthcare Access, Pakistan.