Suicidal behavior among ready-made garment workforce in Bangladesh: Rates and associated factors

The ready-made garment industry of Bangladesh employs over five million workers with lack of attention to the mental health and psychosocial support. This study aimed to see the rate of suicidal behavior and their associated sociodemographic, occupational, physical health, and psychological factors. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between March 2023 and December 2025. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire assessing sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, physical and mental health history, and suicidal behavior. Associations were examined using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests and logistic regression analyses. Suicidal ideation was present among 38.8% and 16% in lifetime and the last year, respectively and suicide attempt was found among 27.8% of participants in lifetime. Suicidal ideation was significantly associated with personal history of mental illness (OR = 5.4), chronic physical illness (OR = 4.2), and family history of suicide attempts (OR = 4.2). Participants with suicidal ideation had significantly higher depression, anxiety, and stress scores. In adjusted analyses, depression (AOR = 1.1) and anxiety (AOR = 1.2) remained independent predictors of suicidal ideation. Suicidal behaviors are common among garment workers in Bangladesh and are influenced by physical illness, and psychological distress.