Assisted Dying for Mental Illness

SOURCE www.theguardian.com
Zoraya ter Beek, a 29-year-old Dutch woman with chronic depression, anxiety, trauma, and unspecified personality disorder, has been granted assisted dying in the Netherlands due to unbearable mental suffering. Her case has sparked a debate on the legality of assisted dying for psychiatric illnesses. She is expected to end her life in the coming weeks.

Key Points

  • Zoraya ter Beek has chronic depression, anxiety, trauma, and unspecified personality disorder.
  • Assisted dying for psychiatric illnesses in the Netherlands is rare but increasing.
  • Strict rules and assessments are in place for assisted dying in the Netherlands.
  • Ter Beek's decision has been met with both support and criticism.

Pros

  • Provides relief from unbearable mental suffering for individuals with psychiatric illnesses.

Cons

  • Controversial issue sparking debates on the legality and ethics of assisted dying for mental illness.