Abstract
Objective. The primary aim of this study was to explore the relationships between prayer frequency, religious orientation, and psychological distress. Additionally, the study sought to assess how these variables contribute to distinguishing between mentally healthy individuals and those at psychological risk. Specifically, the study examined the potential of prayer frequency and religious orientation as significant indicators for identifying psychological vulnerabilities and risks related to mental health.
Methods. This research adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing a correlational design to establish relationships between the key variables. The sample consisted of 300 valid responses, which were collected through research questionnaires, with two incomplete questionnaires excluded from the final analysis. To analyze the data, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed using SPSS version 26. The study also employed several standardized instruments to measure the key constructs, including the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), the Prayer Questionnaire, the Religious Orientation Questionnaire, and the Distress Tolerance Questionnaire. These instruments were used to assess psychological health, religious behaviors, and distress tolerance.
Results. The analysis revealed significant and direct relationships between prayer frequency, religious orientation, and psychological distress. More importantly, these variables demonstrated a strong ability to differentiate between the group of individuals with healthy psychological profiles and those at high risk for psychological distress. The results suggest that individuals who engage in regular prayer and possess strong religious orientations tend to report lower levels of psychological distress, while those with minimal religious engagement exhibit higher distress levels. Conclusion. The findings emphasize the critical role of religious and spiritual dimensions in promoting mental health and alleviating psychological distress. This study suggests that spiritual practices, such as prayer, can serve as important protective factors in mental health and may be used as indicators for early identification of individuals at risk of psychological issues. The results also highlight the need for further research into the potential benefits of religious engagement in the prevention and management of psychological distress, particularly as it relates to developing mental health interventions.