The Intersectionality of Food Insecurity, Job Insecurity, Healthcare Insecurity, and Mental Health Challenges in NYC Households During Covid-19

Ecol Food Nutr. 2024 Mar-Apr;63(2):112-134. doi: 10.1080/03670244.2024.2308669. Epub 2024 Feb 29.

Abstract

Our intersectional research explored food insecurity and job insecurity as predictors of healthcare insecurity and mental health challenges among households living in economic instability since the COVID19 pandemic began. The New York City COVID19 Research Team adapted a validated, web based, anonymous survey questionnaire using a Social Determinants of Health Framework. The study oversampled underserved populations with a total of 2,099 participants. We report strong associations between food insecurity and job insecurity among healthcare insecure households, and significant mental health challenges among food insecure and healthcare insecure households. This underscores the need for integrated social policies to protect underserved urban populations.

Keywords: Food insecurity; Job insecurity; healthcare insecurity; mental health; syndemic theory.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Food Insecurity
  • Food Supply
  • Humans
  • Intersectional Framework
  • Job Security
  • Mental Health