<![CDATA[Diabetes mellitus is a chronic non-communicable disease with increasing prevalence and a high risk of complications, requiring continuous and consistent self-care activity. However, the long-term demands of disease management may cause psychological stress, which can reduce patients’ ability and adherence in performing self-care activities. This study aimed to determine the relationship between stress level and self-care activities among patients with diabetes mellitus at Roemani Muhammadiyah Hospital, Semarang. A quantitative correlational design with a cross-sectional approach was used. Data were collected using the DASS-42 and SDSCA questionnaires from 42 respondents selected through consecutive sampling. Data were analyzed using Spearman’s rank correlation test. The results showed that 33.3% of respondents had normal stress levels, and 47.6% engaged in moderate self-care activities. The analysis revealed a significant relationship between stress level and self-care activity (p = 0.000; rho = -0.515), indicating a moderate negative correlation. Higher stress levels were associated with poorer self-care activity. It is recommended that healthcare professionals strengthen stress management education and self-care support, while future researchers should explore other contributing factors such as family support, health literacy, and coping strategies.. Keywords: Stress Level, Self-Care Activity, Diabetes Mellitus]]>
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