Self-Esteem, Self-Gratitude, and their Influence on Subjective Well-Being in GERD Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) often leads to decreased quality of life, including impacts on patients' psychological well-being. However, limited studies have explored the psychological factors influencing subjective well-being in GERD patients. This study aims to examine the relationship between self-esteem and self-gratitude with subjective well-being among patients suffering from GERD. Using a cross-sectional design and purposive sampling technique, a total of 109 respondents were selected from the GERD patient population. The dependent variable in this study is subjective well-being, while the independent variables are self-esteem and self-gratitude. Data were collected through validated questionnaires, including the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Gratitude Questionnaire (GQ-6), and a Subjective Well-Being Scale. The Spearman rank correlation test was employed to analyze the data. Results indicated a significant positive correlation between self-esteem and subjective well-being (ρ = 0.663, p < 0.001), and a very strong positive correlation between self-gratitude and subjective well-being (ρ = 0.832, p < 0.001). This study found a significant positive relationship between self-esteem and self-gratitude and subjective well-being in GERD patients, whereby the higher their self-esteem and self-gratitude, the better their subjective well-being. These findings suggest that higher levels of self-esteem and self-gratitude are associated with higher subjective well-being in GERD patients. To improve subjective well-being in GERD patients, simple efforts like counseling, practicing gratitude, and boosting self-esteem through positive thinking and group support can help reduce the negative effects of the disease.