A study to assess the effect of number of children and children’s age on the mental health of working mothers and to examine the relationship between job mobility and work-related stress among working mothers in urban communities.

Working mothers often experience multiple role demands arising from family responsibilities and occupational obligations, which may adversely affect their mental health. This study aimed to assess the effect of the number of children and children’s age on the mental health of working mothers and to examine the relationship between job mobility and workrelated stress among working mothers in urban communities. A quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, and data were collected from working mothers using structured questionnaires that included standardized tools for assessing mental health and work-related stress. Data were analyzed using jamovi statistical software, employing descriptive statistics, Welch’s one-way ANOVA, correlation analysis, and linear regression. The findings revealed that maternal mental health scores increased significantly with an increase in the number of children, particularly among mothers with more children under ten years of age (F = 21.5, p < .001; r = 0.217, p < .001). Working mothers in transferable jobs reported significantly higher levels of work-related stress compared to those in nontransferable jobs (Mean = 3.46 vs. 2.71; F = 143, p < .001). Linear regression analysis demonstrated that job mobility was a strong predictor of work-related stress, explaining 24.9% of the variance in stress levels (R² = 0.249, p < .001). The study concludes that both family-related factors and occupational factors play a significant role in shaping the mental health and stress levels of working mothers. The findings highlight the need for integrated family-centered and workplace-based interventions to promote maternal mental well-being