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Canadian veterans say officials raised assisted death while they sought mental health care
Former Afghan veteran David Baltzer says a Veterans Affairs Canada caseworker asked him to consider medically assisted death in 2019, while he was seeking help for PTSD and suicidal thoughts. His account, alongside those of other veterans, has renewed scrutiny of whether Canada’s assisted dying system is being raised with people who need mental health care and disability support.
Baltzer says the suggestion came after his benefits were cut and he was struggling to adjust to civilian life; he recalls it making him feel his life was worthless. A lawyer representing several veterans says she is preparing a proposed class-action lawsuit against the Canadian government. The accounts also include claims of inadequate support and easier access to cannabis than some medical equipment.
In short
- A veteran says a caseworker raised assisted death while he sought help.
- Other Canadian veterans describe similar offers amid mental health struggles.
- A lawyer is preparing a proposed class-action lawsuit.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Assisted dying is a lawful choice for eligible people who make a voluntary, informed request, and discussing it need not mean recommending it. Supporters may argue that clear safeguards and careful, non-coercive conversations respect individual autonomy, while the reported accounts warrant investigation and better training so that any discussion is appropriate and support needs are addressed.
The case against
People seeking help for PTSD or suicidal thoughts may be especially vulnerable, so raising assisted death while they seek mental health care can feel coercive or deepen despair, particularly if practical support has been cut or is inadequate. Critics argue that officials should prioritise timely treatment and disability support, and that the veterans’ accounts demand accountability and safeguards against such discussions being initiated inappropriately.
Explained simply
Canada’s Veterans Affairs department provides benefits and support to former members of the armed forces as they adjust to civilian life. Some veterans live with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition that can follow traumatic experiences, and may need ongoing treatment and practical support.
Canada also allows eligible people to seek medical assistance in dying, a process in which medical professionals help someone end their life under legal safeguards. Debate has arisen over how this option is discussed with people seeking care, including whether mental health needs and disabilities are being properly supported. The veterans’ accounts have prompted questions about the responsibilities of government services and the safeguards around assisted dying.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “They fought for their country. Their reward? Euthanasia. Veterans with serious injuries or PTSD reveal they are being invited to end their lives under Canada’s assisted dying system”.