Unveiling the Association of Dietary Patterns and Lifestyle Behaviors with Perceived Stress among Bank Employees: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Occupational stress is a critical concern in the banking sector, where high demands and pressure-driven environments can adversely influence both physical and psychological health. This study was designed to explore the association between dietary habits, lifestyle behaviors, and perceived stress among bank employees in Multan, Pakistan. A total of 250 employees from both public and private banks participated in this cross-sectional survey. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographic information, dietary patterns, and lifestyle behaviors, while perceived stress levels were assessed through the validated Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 28, employing descriptive measures, chi-square tests, t-tests, correlations, and ANOVA with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results indicated that a considerable proportion of participants reported moderate to high levels of stress, with an average PSS score of 21.4. Employees who skipped meals or breakfast consistently had higher stress scores compared to those maintaining regular meal patterns. Smoking showed a significant association with increased stress, whereas regular exercise and sufficient sleep were strongly protective against stress, reducing mean scores substantially. Regression analysis revealed that each additional hour of sleep was linked to a 1.3-point decrease in stress levels. Although alcohol consumption was more frequent among individuals with moderate and high stress, the association was not statistically significant. The findings suggest that poor dietary and lifestyle practices contribute notably to workplace stress among bank employees.