On April 25th, Fun passed away by choice, a decision she made after long contemplation and organizing her funeral well in advance. In an interview with "The Sunday Times," she shared her deep personal struggles: "My father is sick, my mother is sick, my parents are struggling to stay alive, and I've chosen to 'exit' life."
A 34-year-old Dutch woman opts for euthanasia due to mental health struggles
Fun, in her conversation with the British newspaper, revealed that she is autistic and has faced depression, eating disorders, and learning difficulties since she was young. Her life felt overwhelmed by "Darkness, over-stimulation, chaos in the head, loneliness. Most of the time, I feel really bad. Sad, depressed, gloomy. It's invisible to others. It's a mask I wear, a coping mechanism learned over the years." She emphasized her desire for a peaceful end to her life, viewing it as a preferable alternative to suicide.
Throughout her life, Fun sought therapy numerous times but ultimately chose euthanasia two years ago after consulting with a therapist. The Netherlands permits assisted death for psychiatric reasons under very stringent conditions. Fun highlighted, "It's a process, not just the act of euthanasia. It's about dying with dignity: painlessly, with a doctor's help, and with your loved ones by your side."
Strict criteria for assisted death in the Netherlands
To be eligible for euthanasia in the Netherlands, one must be fully mentally competent and possess a consistent desire to die. The decision must be voluntary, free from coercion, with a clear understanding of all alternative treatments, and deemed the only rational choice. Independent doctors must verify eligibility, and the procedure follows precise protocols.
Critics and social media voices point out that Fun was "physically healthy." However, the distinction between physical and mental health is unclear; both are crucial for a life free from suffering. Mental afflictions should not be viewed as less significant, and those opting for euthanasia due to mental torment hold no less rationality than those enduring physical discomfort.
The necessity of euthanasia
Without the option of euthanasia, individuals suffering from unbearable mental conditions might resort to suicide. Psychiatrists involved in euthanasia can offer further treatments to those who have not yet tried all options, providing an alternative to taking their life. Fun argued that euthanasia ensures no one discovers her body in a distressing condition, nor does she risk surviving a failed suicide attempt with potentially worse outcomes.
The careful involvement of doctors in euthanasia can also offer solace to the deceased's family. Suicide can leave a lasting impact on loved ones, fraught with mourning, a quest for answers, and enduring guilt.
