Safiruddin Al Baqi, Mario Pratama, Rudy Kurniawan, Debby Syahru Romadlon
Spiritual support is an important aspect of holistic care, yet its role in diabetes self-management remains underexplored. This qualitative study examined how chaplain-led spiritual care supports adults with type 2 diabetes in Indonesia. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 Muslim and Christian participants from two outpatient clinics. Thematic analysis revealed four interconnected themes: “Anchored by Faith,” where spiritual reframing provided emotional strength; “From Isolation to Connection,” with chaplains offering compassionate presence; “Faith into Action,” where beliefs motivated health behaviors; and “Negotiating Boundaries,” reflecting tensions between spiritual and medical advice. A cyclical model illustrated the dynamic role of spiritual care in emotional, behavioral, and relational aspects of chronic illness. Findings suggest that chaplains can meaningfully support diabetes self-management by addressing spiritual needs and fostering patient motivation. Integrating chaplaincy into outpatient chronic care, particularly in religious communities, may enhance engagement and promote more person-centered care. © Equinox Publishing Ltd 2026, Office 415, The Workstation, 15 Paternoster Row, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S1 2BX.
State Islamic University of Kiai Ageng Muhammad Besari Ponorogo, Indonesia; Universitas Negeri, Padang, Indonesia; Diabetes Connection Care, Eka Hospital BSD, Sobat Diabet, Indonesia; Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
