The aim of present study was to explore gender differences in the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among patients at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar and to identify socio-economic and cultural factors contributing to these mental health conditions.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 400 patients (200 males, 200 females) aged 18-65 years, enrolled from both outpatient department (OPD) and inpatient department (IPD) cases at Lady Reading Hospital. The Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-21) and a demographic questionnaire were used for data collection. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and logistic regression analyses were employed.

Female participants exhibited significantly higher rates of depression (65%), anxiety (70%), and stress (60%) compared to males (40%, 45%, and 35%, respectively). Key socio-economic predictors included low education levels, unemployment, domestic abuse, and financial insecurity, disproportionately impacting women. Males also faced stress and anxiety, albeit less frequently, influenced by poverty, inflation, and the need to support large families.

This study suggested significant gender differences in the prevalence of depression, stress, and sanxiety among patients at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. The higher prevalence highlights the need for targeted mental health services to address the unique cultural, social and economic factors. By increasing job opportunities and socioeconomic independence, removing gender related educational disparities and provision of gender sensitive mental health services are important steps in reducing mental health burden in KPK.