Positive mental health on Indian track: A complex twist of occupational stress and coping

BACKGROUND: The present research aimed to propose a positive mental health model in relation to occupational stress and coping styles among train drivers of Indian railways. METHODS: Sample (N = 300) in the age group of 21–59 years, with 40 years of mean age, and the job experience ranged from 3 to 40 years with a mean of 15 years was undertaken through purposive sampling technique. The sample also had a proper representation of the sociodemographic background. The survey-based research design with an empirical approach was used in the present study. RESULTS: The structural equation model revealed the positive mental health of train drivers negatively associated with the experience of occupational stress. Their flourishing state has supported the positive effect of problem-focused coping and the negative effect of social support. However, this relationship with work stress was absent. Through moderation effect, problem-focused coping style strengthens the inverse association between occupational stress and positive mental health. This effect was equivalent across all living areas and income groups at the model as well as the path levels. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that train drivers who engaged in problem-focused coping could better handle organizational role stress and benefit from improved mental well-being. Therefore, many failures in the railway caused by human error emphasize the importance of this preventive strategy.