Zoraya ter Beek, a 29-year-old Dutch woman, who has been battling severe depression for many years, applied for euthanasia three and a half years ago. The process, ongoing since 2020, gained international attention in April. Recently, the final decision on Beek's euthanasia request was made.
Zoraya ter Beek's euthanasia request was approved based on the unbearable mental anguish caused by chronic depression, anxiety disorder, and an unidentified personality disorder.
In the Netherlands, where euthanasia is regulated by a law passed in 2002, Beek received the final approval after a three and a half year process. However, as euthanasia approval for individuals with psychiatric illnesses is rare in the Netherlands, Beek's case sparked debates.
Beek recounted her struggles from early childhood. She endured chronic depression, anxiety, trauma, and an unidentified personality disorder, along with an autism diagnosis. Despite various treatments, no improvement was observed in her condition.
In 2020, due to the mental suffering she experienced, Beek applied for euthanasia.
However, the process was lengthy and intricate. Beek's case was evaluated by a team, a second opinion was sought, and their decisions were reviewed by another independent doctor. After a three and a half year evaluation period, Beek stated, 'It's not like on Monday you ask for assisted dying, and by Friday you die.'
In an interview with The Guardian, Beek asserted that she never doubted her decision throughout this period.
She expressed her situation, saying, 'There was 'nothing left' for treatment 10 years later. I knew I couldn't cope with my current lifestyle.' Beek admitted to contemplating suicide at one point but refrained after witnessing the impact of a schoolmate's suicide on the family.
When Beek's situation made headlines in April, her inbox flooded with emails!
The public's response and the reactions Beek received in April caused significant stress. Beek mentioned deleting all her social media accounts due to misleading information in the emails, mostly originating from the United States.
Beek addressed the emails, stating, 'Every doctor at every stage says, 'Are you sure? You can stop anytime you want.'' She continued, 'People would say, 'Don't do it; life is precious.' I know this. Others suggested I try a specific diet or medication. Some told me to find Jesus or Allah or warned me that I would burn in hell. It was a storm. I couldn't handle all the negativity.'
Beek's death is anticipated to occur within the next few weeks. Despite feeling relief in this situation, she also acknowledges feeling guilt. However, she adds that sometimes, leaving loved ones behind is necessary.