Welcome to Episode 145, 'Beyond Redemption: Unraveling the Controversy of Euthanasia for Addiction.' In this episode, we're exploring an emergent and potentially contentious issue: the possibility of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) for addiction. This exploration takes us to a crossroads of recovery, life-preservation, and assisted death, raising profound moral, ethical, and legal questions. Our discussion is informed by Tristan Hopper's thought-provoking piece in the National Post, titled 'One third of Canadians fine with prescribing assisted suicide for homelessness.' Join us as we probe the complexities of this nascent topic, which might significantly shape the future of addiction treatment.
In our roles as addiction medicine professionals, we often grapple with the reality that our best efforts may not always yield the desired outcomes for some individuals. This only bolsters our commitment to relentlessly push for improvement and innovation in our approaches.
The concept of introducing MAiD into these challenging circumstances opens up a whole new realm of debate. It presents an ethical paradox: our roles in promoting recovery and preserving life could potentially intersect with facilitating suicide.
We acknowledge the deeply personal decisions some individuals make to end their own lives, and understand the enormous ethical implications of balancing the roles of recovery facilitation and potentially aiding in suicide. Our initial inclination is that MAiD should typically be linked with terminal illnesses, rather than being extended to mental health conditions like addiction. Yet, this is a budding discussion, and we're here to delve into this exploration and ongoing conversation
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
0:00 - Former Addict's Thoughts on Euthanasia for Addiction
0:52 - Introduction to Topic
3:03 - Video: Tristan Hooper, National Post
4:56 - Understanding the Current MAiD Process
10:04 - Dr. Wip Addresses Limitations in Addiction Medicine
13:05 - Is Addiction a Treatable Condition?
16:21 - Maintaining Hope in Addiction Recovery
21:02 - Discussion: Slippery Slope Phenomenon and Patient Capacity
26:35 - Future Predictions: Is the Progression Unstoppable?
DISCLAIMER:
This podcast discusses sensitive topics including medical assistance in death. These may trigger strong reactions. If you, or someone you know, are experiencing suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately. Remember, professional help is available, and you are not alone. This podcast does not replace professional advice.
In Canada, contact the Suicide Prevention Service at 1.833.456.4566
In the United States, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255
REFERENCES:
https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/canada-maid-assisted-suicide-homeless
https://globalnews.ca/news/9761846/bc-diamond-family-drug-treatment-donation-20-million/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788138/pdf/10.1177_0706743717746662.pdf
ABOUT THE CHANNEL:
Join addiction psychiatrist Dr. Wiplove (Wip) Lamba, addiction case manager and former addict Jean-Paul (JP) Michael, and their guests as they explore topics related to substance use, addiction, addiction medicine, psychotherapy, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery. Wip and JP share their passion and curiosity for their field, with JP working daily in a renowned inner-city hospital in Canada's largest city. This work is separate from Wiplove's clinical and academic endeavours.
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