Talking About Death: Conversation with Psychiatrist Paul Saladino aka @CarnivoreMD
Cate Shanahan MDPublished on April 17, 2020
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
In a recent discussion, Dr. Cate Shanahan emphasizes the need for open conversations about death, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. She advocates for embracing death as a natural part of life, rather than fearing it, to foster understanding and compassion among families.
Key Points
- Dr. Cate Shanahan discusses the importance of having conversations about death, particularly during health crises like COVID-19.
- Many elderly individuals feel pressured to fight for their lives, even when they may be ready to embrace death.
- Open discussions about end-of-life care can alleviate anxiety and ensure that loved ones understand each other's wishes.
- Cultural fears surrounding death often lead to extreme responses and complicate the natural process of dying.
- Palliative care settings can facilitate these important conversations, providing relief for families.
The Radical Conversation We Need to Have About Death
In these unprecedented times marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, an important and often taboo topic has emerged that warrants our attention: death. In a recent conversation with Dr. Drew Pinsky, health expert and speaker Dr. Cate Shanahan delved into the necessity of discussing death openly, particularly within the context of our healthcare system and societal norms.
The Necessity of Addressing Death
Dr. Shanahan emphasizes that during times of crisis, such as the coronavirus pandemic, we often overlook significant opportunities to approach death with maturity and acceptance. She argues that many older adults, due to societal pressures and fears, may hesitate to express their feelings about end-of-life care. For instance, when faced with serious illness, many elderly individuals might feel obligated to fight for their lives, even if they are weary of doing so.
Conversations We Should Be Having
Dr. Shanahan encourages families to have open discussions about death with their loved ones. She posits that many older adults are reluctant to bring up their wishes for end-of-life care, fearing that doing so might seem like they are rejecting their families. However, she believes that these conversations are crucial. It is essential for families to understand what their loved ones truly want, and to respect their feelings about potentially letting go.
The Fear of Death in Our Culture
One of the major issues Dr. Shanahan highlights is the pervasive fear of death in our culture. This fear often leads to extreme responses during health crises. She notes that many individuals feel pressured to fight against death, even when they may be ready to embrace it. This societal mandate can complicate the natural process of dying, leading to unnecessary suffering, particularly for those who have lived fulfilling lives.
A New Perspective on Death
Dr. Shanahan suggests that death should not be viewed as something to fear, but rather as a natural part of life. Various spiritual traditions view death as a transition, not an end. By accepting death as a part of life, we can alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding it and foster more meaningful conversations about our final wishes.
The Role of Palliative Care
In palliative and hospice care settings, these discussions often occur more naturally, with third parties facilitating conversations that family members might find difficult to initiate. Dr. Shanahan notes that this approach can be a relief for families, as it allows them to align on their loved one’s wishes without the emotional burden of initiating the conversation themselves.
Conclusion
Having conversations about death is radical, yet necessary. By addressing our fears and openly discussing our wishes, we can create a more compassionate and understanding environment for ourselves and our loved ones. As Dr. Shanahan eloquently puts it, embracing the idea of death can be a beautiful process that allows us to live more fully.