Work-life balance and mental and social well-being among chiropractors in Malaysia: A qualitative study.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore how work-life balance was perceived to influence mental and social well-being among chiropractors practicing in Malaysia.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using semistructured interviews with 15 purposively sampled practicing chiropractors in Malaysia. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's 6-phase framework. Trustworthiness was supported by team-based coding of a subset of transcripts and by the maintenance of an audit trail. Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants provided written informed consent.

Results: Eleven themes were identified across 2 interrelated domains. Social well-being comprises 4 themes: personal and professional support networks; clinic culture as community; social isolation arising from work overflow; and bidirectional work-home spillover. Mental well-being comprised 7 themes: self-care strategies and coping mechanisms; navigating the balance between mental well-being and burnout; professional identity, boundaries, and self-acceptance; recognition of personal limits; mindfulness and self-reflection; impacts of external circumstances; and seeking validation and support.

Conclusion: In this context-specific qualitative sample, work-life balance was perceived as an active and ongoing process shaped by clinical environments, professional roles, and social relationships. The findings highlight the interconnected nature of mental and social well-being among chiropractors practicing in Malaysia.