Suicidal Ideation and Its Correlates Among Adult Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic psychiatric condition frequently associated with significant functional impairment and an elevated risk of suicidal ideation and behavior. Understanding its correlates is essential for early detection and prevention of suicide among vulnerable patients. Aim of the study: To assess the prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation among adult patients with OCD attending a tertiary care hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional study included 120 adult OCD patients diagnosed using DSM-5 criteria. Participants were divided into two groups: those with suicidal ideation (n=30) and those without (n=30). Standardized tools including Y-BOCS, HDRS, HAM-A, BABS, and WHOQOL-BREF were administered. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests, t-tests, Pearson’s correlations, and logistic regression. Result: Suicidal ideation was observed in 50% of participants. Independent predictors included comorbid depression (adjusted OR = 7.78, p < 0.001), higher Y-BOCS scores (adjusted OR = 1.13, p < 0.001), family psychiatric history (adjusted OR = 3.67, p = 0.012), longer duration of illness (adjusted OR = 1.20, p = 0.003), and unemployment (adjusted OR = 2.50, p = 0.025). Participants with suicidal ideation also demonstrated significantly lower quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF: 51.00 ± 9.40 vs. 64.80 ± 10.20, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Suicidal ideation is highly prevalent among Bangladeshi adults with OCD, strongly linked to depressive symptoms, illness severity, and psychosocial stressors. Early identification and comprehensive management, including suicide risk screening and psychosocial support, are essential to reduce suicide-related morbidity and mortality.