Advocates Push to Ban Euthanasia for Mental Illness in Canada

Members of a non-profit coalition opposing euthanasia gathered on October 28, 2023, to advocate for a private member’s bill that seeks to prohibit medical assistance in dying (MAID) for individuals suffering solely from mental illness. The event, organized by the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition (EPC), highlighted their support for Conservative MP Tamara Jansen’s Bill C-218, which was introduced in June and is currently undergoing its second reading in the House of Commons.

EPC officials voiced concerns that the expansion of MAID to include those diagnosed exclusively with mental illnesses could lead to significant ethical implications. During the news conference, EPC president Gordon Friesen emphasized that support for MAID stems not from a belief that certain patients should die, but rather from the importance of allowing individuals to make “free, informed, competent, and adult choices.”

Friesen and other advocates argued that mental illness can often be treated and that individuals in such situations deserve access to care and support, rather than the option of euthanasia. They contend that the trajectory of mental health treatment can be complex and that individuals may experience periods of improvement, making the option of MAID inappropriate and harmful.

The proposed Bill C-218 aims to ensure that the criteria for MAID remain focused on physical health conditions, a move that advocates assert is essential to protect vulnerable populations. The bill would prevent the inclusion of mental illness as a qualifying condition for euthanasia, thereby maintaining a clear distinction between physical and mental health in legislation surrounding end-of-life choices.

The coalition’s stance reflects a broader debate within Canadian society regarding the ethical considerations of euthanasia and the rights of individuals with mental health conditions. As discussions surrounding these issues continue in the political arena, the EPC remains committed to advocating for the protection of those who may be at risk of making irreversible decisions due to their mental health struggles.

As the second reading of Bill C-218 approaches, the EPC hopes to rally further support from both the public and political leaders. The organization believes that fostering dialogue about mental health and advocating for comprehensive care is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by individuals living with mental illness.

The outcome of this legislation could have far-reaching implications for mental health policy in Canada, as well as for the ongoing conversation about the ethical dimensions of euthanasia. The EPC’s efforts underscore the need for thoughtful consideration of how best to support vulnerable communities while respecting individual autonomy.