Self-efficacy as a Predictor of Health and Mental Health among Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that requires comprehensive management including a holistic approach involving both physiological and psychological aspects. This study examines the role of diabetes-specific self-efficacy as a predictor of health and mental well-being among diabetic patients. The study is conducted in Pune, India and employed a quantitative, correlational research design with a sample of 164 individuals diagnosed with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Standardized measures were incorporated to access self-efficacy, self-rated health, anxiety, depression, diabetes-related distress, and overall well-being. The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between diabetes-specific self-efficacy and self-rated health (r = 0.331, p < .001) and well-being (r = 0.401, p < .001). Additionally, self-efficacy was negatively correlated with anxiety (r = -0.416, p < .001), depression (r = -0.341, p < .001), and diabetes-related distress (r = -0.367, p < .001). Regression analysis indicated that self-efficacy explains 11-17% of the variance in these variables, underscoring its predictive power in diabetes management. These findings highlight the psychological dimensions of diabetes care, advocating for interventions such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, self-monitoring, and behavioural reinforcement to enhance self-efficacy. Integrating psychological support into routine diabetes care can improve glycaemic control, emotional resilience, and overall quality of life, reinforcing the need for a holistic, patient-cantered approach in diabetes management.