Internalized stigma in obsessive compulsive disorder: Correlates and associations with quality of life

In the present study we aimed to measure IS among outpatients with OCD, and to assess its relationship with clinical and sociodemographic variables, and quality of life. Out of 100 patients assessed, 79 patients with OCD were included in the study. Each patient was assessed using the SCID-5 CV, Y-BOCS, ISMI Scale, and WHOQOL-BREF. There was a strong correlation of IS with lower QoL and severity of OCD symptoms. Avoidance behavior, psychological health and social relationship domains emerged as independent factors related to IS in the regression analysis. There is a need for further studies on a larger samples to identify the specifics of the development and impact of IS in people with OCD. •There was a strong correlation of IS with lower QoL and severity of OCD symptoms.•Avoidance behavior, psychological and social relationship predicted IS.•There is a stronger influence of younger age of onset of OCD in development of IS.•A holistic approach to mental health should include an understanding of stigma.