Psychological Well-Being and Coping Strategies Among Patients With Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Correlative Study

Objectives A diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a most typical complication of diabetes mellitus that occurs due to poor glycaemic control, improper foot care, and dry skin. Well-being may be adversely affected by non-healing wounds. Inadequate coping strategies lead to adverse effects. The objective of this study is to evaluate the correlation between psychological well-being and coping strategies among patients with DFU. Material and Methods A non-experimental correlative study was conducted among patients (n=90) with DFU in a selected hospital in Karnataka. Patients were selected purposively based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data was collected using a psychological general well-being scale and brief COPE questionnaire. Results The findings of the study revealed that 43 (47.8%) participants showed strong distress. There was a negative correlation of psychological well-being with problem-focused coping (r=- 0.22, p=0.03) and avoidant-focused coping (r=- 0.34, p=0.01). There was a significant association between psychological well-being and age (p=0.022) and monthly income (p=0.03). Emotional coping strategies were associated with the type of family (p=0.006), and avoidant coping strategies were associated with the age of the patients (p=0.021). Conclusion This study showed that patients with diabetic feet were in strong distress. A negative correlation existed between psychological well-being and coping strategies such as problem-focused coping and avoidant-focused coping. The study highlights the need for behavioural therapies regarding the adaptation of coping strategies to manage their actions and emotions.