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Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is used to treat bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. Many people don’t understand how and when this treatment is used. So, they find it scary.
ECT is generally used only:
- In severe or life-threatening cases
- When medicine and counseling haven’t worked
ECT works by sending an electrical charge to the brain. This causes a short, controlled seizure. It may sound frightening. But, you won’t feel anything, since your doctor will give you medicines beforehand to relax your muscles and put you to sleep.
People getting ECT usually have six to 12 sessions over several weeks.
It works right away
Unlike medicines and counseling, ECT tends to work right away to change mood. This is why it can be so helpful for those at risk of suicide. Remember: No matter how it’s shown in books and movies, ECT is never used on someone who doesn’t want it.
ECT has some side effects. These include short-term memory loss. In some patients, the good they get from the treatment may outweigh the side effects.
ECT is usually done for short periods. But it can also be used as an on-going treatment for people with hard-to-control symptoms.
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