Canadian Actress Seeks Legal Right To Assisted Death Over Mental Health

Canadian actress Claire Brosseau has approached the court to seek legal permission for assisted death, citing “unbearable” suffering caused by long-term mental health challenges.

Brosseau, 49, appeared before the Ontario Superior Court of Justice on Monday to argue for a constitutional exemption that would allow her access to medical aid in dying (MAID). Under current Canadian law, assisted death is generally reserved for individuals with serious and incurable physical ailments, excluding those whose primary condition is mental illness.

The Montreal-based actress, known for her roles in various films, shared that she has struggled with severe bipolar and post-traumatic stress disorders for years. Despite having what she described as an “embarrassment of riches”, including a supportive family and a successful career, she maintained that her internal suffering has become impossible to endure.

“It’s unbearable. Every morning I wake up, I don’t think I’m going to make it through the day,” Brosseau told reporters outside the court.

The legal battle began in 2024 when Brosseau and the advocacy group Dying with Dignity sued the Canadian government. They argue that excluding mental illness from assisted dying laws violates the country’s constitutio