The Mind-Body Connection in Chronic Illness: A Qualitative Study of Rural Women in Low-Resource Settings

Background: Chronic illness affects physical health and emotional well-being, especially in rural and low-resource settings where healthcare access and social support systems are limited. Understanding the lived experiences of individuals with chronic disease is important to provide culturally sensitive and integrated care. Objective: This qualitative study aimed to explore the psychological impact of chronic illness among rural women, with a focus on the mind–body connection, coping strategies, social support, and barriers to care. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological approach was used. Eight women from rural Punjab who had been living with a chronic illness for at least one year participated in semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis framework. Results: Five main themes emerged: (1) daily challenges and emotional burden, (2) coping and adaptation strategies, (3) family and community support, (4) mind–body connection, and (5) need for better support systems. Chronic illness significantly affected participants’ emotional, physical and social well-being. The participants demonstrated resilience through faith, family support, and acceptance, yet also experienced stigma, fear, and limited healthcare access. Emotional distress was perceived to worsen physical symptoms. Participants reported an urgent need for accessible healthcare, affordable medicines, and locally relevant health education. Conclusion: Chronic illness in rural women is a multidimensional experience shaped by psychological, social, and cultural factors. These findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive, community-based, and holistic interventions that integrate psychological care into rural health services. Keywords: Chronic illness, mind–body connection, psychological health, qualitative study, rural women, thematic analysis.