The Influence of Ṣadaqa on Mental Health and Well-Being in Turkey

This study examines associations between ṣadaqa (monetary and non-monetary altruism), mental health, and well-being in a Turkish Muslim sample. Multiple surveys from Muslim participants (N = 279) were analyzed to understand how two forms of ṣadaqa, self interested and selfless, are associated with depression, anxiety, and life satisfaction. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that self-interested ṣadaqa was associated with increased depression and anxiety, whereas selfless ṣadaqa significantly lowered depression levels and improved life satisfaction. These findings highlight that selfless ṣadaqa benefits mental health and should become part of religious initiatives that would boost greater life satisfaction. It offers religious leaders and mental health professionals a basis for promoting well-being and life satisfaction in Muslim communities through selfless altruism or ṣadaqa.