Let it Go: A Study on Perceived Stress and Coping Mechanisms of Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Out-Patients

Abstract

This study sought to understand the various life issues faced by Filipino, aged 18 and above, out-patients of PGH particularly on the phenomenon of perceived stress using a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. One hundred and fifty (150) male and female out-patients were purposively selected to participate in this study. After obtaining their informed consent, a pre-tested survey questionnaire that looked into their socio-demographic profile, history of consultation in PGH, perceived negative stressors, and coping mechanisms, was administered. The Perceived Stress Scale developed by Sheldon Cohen was utilized to measure the perceived stress of the participants. Probing interview with selected participants was done afterwards to provide richer information on the phenomenon understudy. The data was analyzed using statistical techniques and categorization of themes and concepts. The results indicated that 87.6 percent of the participants were experiencing slightly higher to much higher than average perceived stress. Financial problem was the primary negative stressor, followed by family, and illness problems. Relaxation was the primary coping mechanism, followed by physical recreation, and gadget-use. In general, the perceived stress levels was found to be dependent on negative stressors, while coping mechanisms were independent on perceived stress levels. Only the income variable was found to be significant with perceived stress levels, while only the civil status variable was found to be significant with the negative stressors and the coping mechanisms. Lastly, it was found that coping does not come in single, but rather in a set of various coping mechanisms used by individuals differently.