RELIGIOSITY AS A PREDICTOR OF POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AMONG HEART PATIENTS: MEDIATING ROLE OF PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT

Objectives: This study investigates the indirect effect of religiosity on post -traumatic growth and psychological distress through perceived social support among heart patients. Methodology: A cross-sectional research design was employed, gathering data from a purposive sample of 140 heart patients, with equal representation of both men and women, from public and private hospitals in Sargodha. Data collection utilized the Urdu -translated versions of the Short Muslim Practice and Belief Scale, Interpersonal Support Evaluation List, PostTraumatic Growth Inventory, and DASS-21 to assess religiosity, perceived social support, posttraumatic growth, and psychological distress, respectively. Results: Perceived social support significantly mediated the relationship between religiosity and post -traumatic growth, amplifying the strength of this association. Additionally, it mediated the relationship between religiosity and psychological distress by alleviating the negative impact on psychological health. Conclusion: This study illuminates the positive influence of religiosity on social support while simultaneously mitigating psychological distress among heart patients. Moreover, perceived social support not only diminishes distress but also fosters post -traumatic growth, serving as a vital mediator in these dynamics. These findings offer insights for interventions aimed at leveraging religiosity and social support to enhance mental well-being in this population.