UK artist chooses euthanasia over battling mental illness

A 28-year-old British-Ghanaian artist named Joseph Awuah-Darko has chosen euthanasia to end his life due to severe mental illness. He has struggled with bipolar disorder for many years and moved to the Netherlands, where euthanasia is legal, to seek this option. He is currently awaiting approval, which can take up to four years. In an emotional video on social media, Joseph shared his journey with mental illness. He described waking up every day in "severe pain" and called the weight of his condition unbearable. He emphasized that while life can be meaningful, the challenges he faces, such as depression and societal pressures, have become too much for him to handle. Joseph launched 'The Last Supper Project,' where he connects with people by sharing meals and conversations. He has traveled to cities like Paris and Milan, hosting dinners to discuss his experiences. This initiative was inspired by the support he received from strangers inviting him to dinner after he revealed his plans. Despite the community he finds in these interactions, Joseph continues to cope with the realities of his condition. He hopes that by sharing his story, others with chronic mental illnesses will feel seen and understood. His decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some people supporting him and others urging him to reconsider. Joseph's case highlights the ongoing discussions around mental health and the complexities surrounding assisted dying. Bipolar disorder, as defined by health experts, causes extreme mood and energy shifts, making daily life challenging for those affected.