Suicidal ideation among ever-married women: evidence from a nationally representative survey

Suicide among Bangladeshi women has been increasing over the decade from 3.9% to 4.3%; however, evidence on factors influencing suicidal ideation remains limited. This study aimed to identify factors associated with suicidal ideation among ever-married women in Bangladesh. We analysed data from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS) 2022, including 19,972 ever-married women aged 15–49 years. Suicidal ideation was assessed using item 9 of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Descriptive analyses were conducted to summarise sample characteristics, and multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios. Overall, 8.3% of women reported suicidal ideation within the past two weeks. Women with elevated anxiety symptoms (GAD-7 score ≥ 10) had higher odds of reporting suicidal ideation (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 22.4; 95% CI: 15.99, 31.47). In contrast, women with access to the internet had lower odds of suicidal ideation compared with those without access (AOR: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.37, 0.97). Suicidal ideation among ever-married women associated with presence of anxiety symptoms and linked to access to internet represents an important mental health concern. Integrating routine anxiety screening and psychosocial support into health services, alongside promoting digital access may strengthen suicide prevention among Bangladeshi women.