Have lifestyle factors led to perceiving a higher level of stress? Implications for mental health policies from an econometric analysis for South Korea

Stress is actually considered as a common aspect of modern life. If stress becomes permanent, it can interfere with individuals’ job, family life and health. Lifestyle variables have often been neglected by the relevant literature in explaining self-perceived stress. Using individual data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) for the year 2005, we carried out an econometric analysis based on ordered probit models. The results demonstrate that self-perceived stress, indeed, the assessment of its intensity, might differ according to factors as gender and lifestyle. Overall, quality of life might improve by modifying individuals’ attitudes.