Introduction: Type 2 diabetes is a chronic and complex global health condition requiring patients’ sustained adherence to self-care behaviors. However, psychological challenges—such as chronic stress, anxiety, and difficulties in emotion regulation—often hinder the effective implementation of these behaviors. Therefore, the application of effective psychological interventions to enhance self-care practices is essential. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), which integrates principles of cognitive therapy with mindfulness meditation practices, helps individuals reduce automatic reactivity to negative thoughts and emotions, remain present-focused, and make more conscious, health-oriented decisions. Accordingly, the present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy in improving self-care activities in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Method: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and a two-month follow-up assessment, including a control group. The statistical population consisted of patients with type 2 diabetes referred to the Parsian Diabetes Clinic in Mashhad city during the summer of 2024. Of these, 28 participants were selected via purposive sampling. Following participant attrition, data from 24 individuals were analyzed (12 in the experimental group and 12 in the control group). The experimental group received eight 90-minute mindfulness-based cognitive therapy sessions. The summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities Measure (SDSCA); (Toobert et al, 2000), was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA via SPSS-21.

Results:  Findings indicated a statistically significant increase in self-care scores in the experimental group at both post-test and follow-up compared to pre-test (p < 0.05). These improvements remained stable at the two-month follow-up. Effect sizes further demonstrated that a substantial proportion of the observed changes could be attributed to the intervention.

Conclusion: Thus, incorporating mindfulness-based cognitive therapy alongside medical care may enhance patients’ adherence to self-care behaviors and contribute effectively to disease management. This study highlights that mindfulness-based psychological interventions can serve as valuable complements to medical treatments in managing chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.