Suicidal behaviour is pathological: implications for psychiatric euthanasia

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Medical Ethics
• Public Health

Background:

• Debate exists on classifying suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) as pathological.
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are linked to mental illness and suicide risk.
• Medical assistance in dying (MAID) for psychiatric conditions is a contentious issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To argue that suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) are pathological.
• To situate suicide prevention within medical practice.
• To examine the implications for medical assistance in dying (MAID) legislation.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical evidence linking STB to suicide risk and psychiatric illness.
• Analysis of the pathological nature of STB.
• Ethical and legal considerations of psychiatric MAID.

Main Results:

• Evidence supports STB as a predictor of suicide risk.
• A high percentage of suicide deaths are associated with psychiatric illness.
• Treatment of psychiatric illness can be a suicide prevention strategy.

Conclusions:

• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) warrant classification as pathological.
• STB necessitates medical treatment and prevention strategies.
• The pathological nature of STB challenges the legalization of psychiatric medical assistance in dying (MAID).