Help Not Harm: Raising Awareness on Mental Illness and Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada

As Canada considers expanding medical assistance in dying (MAID) to include those struggling solely with mental illness, we sit down with Neil MacCarthy, Director of Public Relations and Communication for the Archdiocese of Toronto to discuss pressing questions about autonomy, vulnerability, and how we best support lives worth living. Neil explores the core of the Help Not Harm campaign , reflects on the evolving landscape of end-of-life issues in Canada, and challenges us to deepen our culture of accompaniment and care—reminding us that, before offering someone death, we owe them presence, support, and hope. Join us as we unpack what it truly means to create a society where dignity meets care and every life is valued.