Dying: The Most Taboo Topic You Could Talk About... Until Now

Dying is a natural process that will happen to every human being, yet it remains a taboo topic in many cultures, especially in the United States and other Westernized societies. The avoidance of discussing death and dying can make it difficult for individuals and their families to prepare for the end of life, leading to feelings of confusion, fear, and helplessness.

Why so taboo?

One reason why dying may be considered a taboo topic is the cultural belief in the power of modern medicine and technology. In the United States and other Westernized societies, there is a strong belief that science and medicine can conquer death and extend life indefinitely. This belief makes it difficult for individuals and their families to accept that death is an inevitability and to prepare for the end of life.

Fear

Another reason why dying may be considered a taboo topic is the fear of death itself. Death is often associated with sadness, loss, and grief. It is something that most people would rather not think about, let alone talk about. This fear can make it difficult for individuals and their families to have open and honest conversations about death and dying, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection.

Our healthcare professionals aren't trained in end-of-life

The lack of discussions and education about death and dying in the United States and other Westernized cultures can also make it difficult for healthcare professionals to provide appropriate care for individuals nearing the end of life. Many healthcare professionals have not received adequate training in end-of-life care, and may not know how to discuss death and dying with their patients. Sadly, this causes inappropriate treatments and interventions, which can prolong the dying process and cause unnecessary suffering.

The taboo around death and dying can also contribute to the lack of legal and financial planning for the end of life. Many people avoid discussing end-of-life wishes or creating advance directives because they do not want to think about death. Unfortunately, more times than not this leads to confusion and conflict among family members and healthcare professionals when it comes to making decisions about end-of-life care.

How can we normalize death and dying?

Despite these challenges, it is important to talk about death and dying. Doing so can help you and your family prepare for the end of life, make informed decisions about care, and create a peaceful and dignified dying experience. Families can also talk with healthcare professionals about end-of-life care and ask questions about the dying process. By discussing death and dying openly and honestly, you can also begin to break down the taboo surrounding this topic and create a more compassionate and empathetic society.

Now more than ever death coaches, death doulas, and end-of-life educators are also trying to break the taboo by normalizing conversations about death and dying while providing guidance and support during the end-of-life process. These important professionals are helping individuals and their families navigate the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges that come with nearing the end of life. 

It's time to break the taboo and normalize death and dying

In conclusion, dying is a natural process that happens to every human being, yet it remains a taboo topic in many cultures, especially in the United States and other Westernized societies. The avoidance of discussing death and dying can make it difficult for individuals and their families to prepare for the end of life, leading to feelings of confusion, fear, and helplessness. However, by talking openly and honestly about death and dying, we can begin to break down the taboo surrounding this topic and create a more compassionate and empathetic society.