ABSTRACT
Loss is omnipresent. Dealing with loss, dying and death is difficult for anyone, but can be particularly challenging when supporting someone experiencing mental health diagnosis in this context. The sheer dynamics associated with end-of-life care means that it is likely to include a range of ethical dilemmas, some of which include care delivery; preferred place of care or place of death; clinical decision making; truth telling and breaking bad news; and respect for autonomy and consent. It is not possible to address all of these specific issues in one chapter, but a number of key areas have been selected that should complement other topic areas explored within this unique book.This chapter integrates the challenges around end-of-life care and the associated ethical dimensions when caring for the person experiencing a mental health diagnosis. It will define palliative care and critically reflect on mental health practice in this particular context, using case studies to illustrate the lived experiences of others and the inherent supportive role of professional carers. Issues around truth telling and exploring the art and craft of sensitive conversations are also explored.
