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

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 wellbeing of migrant households in Pathanamthitta.
Keywords: Migration, Socio-economic vulnerability, Psychological well-being, Migrant
households, WHO-5 Well-Being Index