Self-compassion and Hardiness as Protective Factors for Mental Health: Exploring the Relationship and Demographic Differences

Abstract

Pakistan is facing a severe economic crisis. This time period of economic decline has been challenging for everyone. This unforeseen and drastic change has caused transformation in the daily routines which consequently increased psychological burden for working population. Mental health is a basic human need that has been impacted due to over work. Current study’s purpose is to examine the association between hardiness, self-compassion and mental health among working adults across the time period of economic decline. The present study purpose is to explore the demographical differences among these variables as well. Data were collected from N=488 working adults (males=256, females=232) by using correlational research design. Self-Compassion Scale Short form, A Short Hardiness Scale and Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale were applied to find the study variables. Findings of the current study suggest self-compassion, hardiness and mental health are positively correlated with each other. T-test analysis results indicated that female working adults have good mental health and more self-compassion as compared to males. Married working adults are more self-compassionate and have better mental health. Individuals working in private organizations are hardier whereas individuals working in government organizations are self-compassionate and have better mental health. Results were mentioned. Limitations, suggestions and implications of the study were presented for future research.