False Claim: “Most cases of desire to die is a symptom of mental illness”
On April 13, 2026, Dr. Saba participated in a press conference held by the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition at the Parliamentary Press Gallery in Ottawa. In his speech, he claimed that "In most cases the desire to die is a symptom of mental illness."
This is not only untrue, it is offensive to people living with mental illness and to people who have chosen MAiD.
A desire to die can result from mental illness, but the claim that it is always a symptom of mental illness is simply false. It should not take much imagination to understand why someone suffering from an aggressive cancer that has metastasized to their lungs and bones might wish to end their suffering.
It is possible that Dr. Saba intended this statement to refer only to those with a mental illness, rather than to all cases in which someone wishes to have MAiD. If so, we would suggest he be more careful with his word choice, particularly on a topic that is literally about life and death.
Even if Dr. Saba meant the statement to apply only to those with a mental illness, his reasoning still falls apart. Those whose desire to die is a manifestation of mental illness—rather than a response to suffering caused by that illness—would not be found capable of consenting to MAiD.
People living with mental illnesses can and do make serious, even life-limiting, medical decisions. Is Dr. Saba suggesting that someone with a mental illness should not be allowed to sign a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order? We would hope not.
Dr. Saba’s statement depends on treating every wish to die as the same phenomenon. It is not. A suicidal crisis, despair caused by treatable illness, and a competent request for MAiD in the context of grievous suffering are profoundly different realities.
Whether Dr. Saba recognizes these differences or not, MAiD assessors and providers certainly do. Distinguishing between suicidality, impaired decision-making, and a competent MAiD request is central to the assessment process.