I do support euthanasia for those with terminal illnesses or those were they have such a poor quality of life which will not improve. However, I think it may be slightly more complex in mental health. But I would support euthanasia on the basis of mental health when a person requests it if:
- It is extremely unlikely that their condition/illness will improve and they have been experiencing this quality of life for a significant amount of time with no improvement
- They have capacity to make the decision (I wouldn't say that being suicidal means they do not have capacity to make a decision to die)
- A number of independent professionals (NOT solely doctors - I would say a doctor to verify the medical diagnosis, and also a social worker to judge the social situation and someone experienced in mental capacity such as a Best Interest Assessor to judge their capacity) support the decision. It would most likely go to the Court of Protection.
- They have not improved despite a number of treatments (medication, therapy, hospital, alternative treatments)
It is a tricky area. I would be worried that people may make a snap judgment and that it may be abused by family members. But I don't think people should have to suffer because we aren't comfortable with the idea of death.