The Cost of Urban Stress: A Burden on Individuals and the State

Living in urban areas often comes with a price, both literally and figuratively. The comfort and privileges that come with city living are often offset by the stress and pressure that comes with it. In this article, we will explore the cost of urban stress and the burden it places on individuals and the state.

The High Cost of Comfort

Abdelsattar Sahbani, a sociologist, points out that the cost of living in urban areas is high, and it's not just the cost of housing that's the issue. "The individual pays to live in an urban area, and that comes with a price tag," he explains. "The cost of housing varies depending on the location and the quality of the property. To benefit from the comfort of urban living, one must pay more."

The Unaffordability of Housing

Sahbani highlights the issue of unaffordable housing, where people are forced to share small apartments or live in overcrowded conditions. "Instead of being a choice, sharing a home becomes a necessity for those with limited means," he says. "And instead of providing a safe haven for a nuclear family, a small apartment becomes a home for extended families, as the cost of living is unaffordable."

The Promoters' Game

The high cost of housing is also driven by the actions of promoters, who prioritize profit over people. "They build apartments with small surfaces, and they focus on areas that are not yet urbanized, where the price per square meter is competitive," Sahbani explains. "This leads to a lack of amenities and a sense of discomfort in the new neighborhoods."

Inconvenient Amenities

The lack of amenities and the poor quality of services in urban areas contribute to the stress and discomfort of city living. Sahbani points out that the transportation system, roads, and public services are often inadequate, leading to pollution and a sense of oppression.

The Cycle of Consumption

The stress of urban living is also driven by the cycle of consumption, where people are forced to spend money on events and celebrations throughout the year. "From the New Year to Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and summer vacations, there's always something to spend money on," Sahbani explains. "This creates a sense of pressure and stress, as people struggle to keep up with the demands of modern life."

The Consequences of Urban Stress

The consequences of urban stress are far-reaching, affecting not only individuals but also society as a whole. Sahbani points out that the stress of urban living leads to violence, absenteeism, and a decline in mental health. "The statistics are alarming, with two million hours of work lost annually due to absenteeism, and 60% of those absences related to health problems," he says.

A Call to Action

Sahbani recommends several solutions to address the issue of urban stress, including giving local authorities more power and control, increasing transparency in governance, and applying the law to manage urban landscapes and preserve historic neighborhoods. "A national debate is needed to address this issue, and it's urgent," he concludes.

In conclusion, the cost of urban stress is a burden that affects individuals and the state alike. It's time to rethink our approach to urban living and prioritize the well-being of citizens over profit and convenience.