NSC wants research into increased euthanasia desire among young people

The coalition political party NSC wants research conducted into euthanasia in cases of psychological suffering, and the number of requests for euthanasia by young people who are struggling mentally. Statistics show that this has led to a significant increase in requests for assistance in ending one's life over the past few years.

This includes more and more people below 30 years of age, with the increase mainly being young women. NSC MP Rosanne Hertzberger noted that there is a careful euthanasia practice in the Netherlands but is concerned about the new trend and will submit an initiative note on the issue on Friday.

Hertzberger claimed there has been a great deal of attention in the media lately for psychological suffering in young people and those who wish to end their lives earlier as a result. This media attention is quite one-sided, she said.

She referred to a research which showed that there is relatively more attention given to "sensational" euthanasia cases of young people who are suffering psychologically. According to her, this leads to copycat behavior.

For a long time, the number of euthanasia requests annually from people under 30 years of age was around 30 in total. But in 2023, the number rose exponentially to 895 per year. This is also applied to the number of requests granted: 52 in the past four years, compared to five such cases in 2020.

The Centre of Expertise on Euthanasia and the Dutch Association of Mental Health and Addiction Care believe that the media attention led to a wave in the number of requests, Hertzberger wrote. The NSC MP is pleading for a media guideline like what currently exists for coverage of suicide.

Media outlets in the Netherlands often voluntarily reference the 113 suicide prevention line, or other sources where their audience can seek help. Additionally, reporters and editors voluntarily tone down, withhold, or omit some sensationalistic depictions and specific details.

In addition, Hertzberger wants various research conducted to get more of an insight into psychological suffering and the reason for euthanasia requests. She also noted the mental health organizations' challenging situations due to, for example, a lack of staff.

There are long waiting lists for people with psychological problems to receive treatment, with many young people on the lists. Hertzberger also advocates a committee of specialists who can research the concept of hopelessness as a criterion, and the role doctors play, including those who do not always agree with each other. She also wants to know if there are alternative solutions for young people who are in trouble mentally and do not want to live any longer.

NSC wants to start a political discussion on the matter. The Cabinet will have to respond, and the Tweede Kamer, the lower house of Dutch parliament, will have to debate the subject.

The TV program Medialogica Ontleedt from broadcaster Human will broadcast a two-part show about this subject starting on Friday.