SOCIO-ECONOMIC VULNERABILITY AND MENTAL WELL-BEING OF MIGRANT HOUSEHOLDS: A CASE-STUDY OF PATHANAMTHITTA DISTRICT OF KERALA

Abstract

Migration has emerged to be a socio-economic phenomenon in Pathanamthitta district, where a significant share of households depends on internal and international mobility for income, education, and improved living standards. Migration largely contributes to upward economic mobility, but at the same time it also generates financial and emotional strain causing psychological challenges for families left behind. This study examines the socio-demographic characteristics of migrant households, their socio-economic vulnerability, and mental well-being levels through the WHO-5 scale. Primary data were collected from 120 migrant households across selected taluks using a structured questionnaire for the study. The study highlights that higher socio-economic vulnerability reduces psychological well-being, underscoring the need for integrated policies addressing financial stability, mental health support, and social protection. There is a need to strengthen community-level counselling services, enhanced financial literacy, and social welfare coverage to safeguard the well-being of migrant households in Pathanamthitta.