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A physically healthy 28-year-old Dutch woman, Zoraya ter Beek, has chosen to end her life through euthanasia after being diagnosed with depression, autism and borderline personality disorder.

Being in a relationship and having two cats, ter Beek said she did not have much of a family. She has faced challenges stemming from her mental health conditions. Once having aspirations of becoming a psychiatrist, her journey has been affected by her mental health.

Ter Beek decided to opt for euthanasia when her doctors told her, "There's nothing more we can do for you. It's never gonna get any better." 

This May, she is scheduled for euthanasia on her couch with her partner by her side, as a doctor administers the medication. On her social media, ter Beek expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share her journey with those willing to understand. 

Ethical and legal context

Ter Beek's story sheds light on the intersection of mental health, personal autonomy and societal attitudes toward euthanasia. It also reflects a growing trend in the Western world, where people opt for euthanasia to escape non-terminal, yet agonizing, mental health struggles made worse by societal factors like economic instability, climate concerns and the pervasive influence of social media.

Healthcare ethicist Stef Groenewoud has pointed out a concerning trend where healthcare professionals seemingly resort to euthanasia more readily, especially for young individuals struggling with psychiatric disorders. 

The Netherlands legalized euthanasia in 2001, and the country has witnessed a gradual increase in its prevalence since then. However, critics argue that such laws may inadvertently encourage suicides, prompting concerns about a potential contagion effect.