Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) – A Path to Mental Health Recovery

If you’ve tried other treatments for mental health issues but didn’t find relief, Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) could be the answer you need. It’s a highly effective treatment for conditions like severe depression, bipolar disorder, and some forms of schizophrenia, especially when medications and therapy haven’t worked. For many, ECT offers fast and noticeable improvements, helping to restore balance to life.

ECT is much safer today. It uses electric currents given in a controlled setting to get the most benefit with the fewest possible risks. AnMed TMS and Sleep Diagnostics uses the most up-to-date ECT device to deliver different protocols tailored to your needs, including the Unilateral Ultra Brief pulse stimulation protocol.

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Electroconvulsive Therapy: Rapid Relief for Severe Mental Health Conditions

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can greatly and rapidly improve severe symptoms of several mental health conditions, including:

  • Severe Depression: Particularly when other symptoms are present, including psychotic features such as hallucinations or delusions, a strong desire to attempt suicide, or failure to thrive.
  • Treatment-Resistant Depression: Depression that has not responded to multiple medication attempts.
  • Severe Mania: Occurs as part of bipolar disorder, with main symptoms of euphoria or irritability.
  • Catatonia: Characterized by a lack of movement, fast or strange movements, a lack of speech, and other symptoms. It is often related to schizophrenia and certain other mental health conditions.
  • Agitation and Aggression in Dementia: These symptoms are difficult to treat, can negatively affect quality of life, and may cause injury and distress to others.

What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?

Electroconvulsive Therapy (or ECT) is a procedure done under general anesthesia. During this procedure, small electric currents pass through the brain, intentionally causing a brief seizure and improving psychiatric symptoms.

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How ECT Works

ECT is performed under general anesthesia to ensure you're completely comfortable. During the procedure, small electric currents pass through your brain, triggering a brief, controlled seizure. This seizure alters certain brain chemicals, which can lead to quick improvements in mood, energy levels, and cognitive function.

Most people begin noticing improvements after about six treatments, and the total course typically ranges between 6 and 12 sessions over two to four weeks.

What to Expect During an ECT Session

Each ECT session lasts about two to three hours over the course of two to three treatments per week. You'll be asleep throughout the procedure, thanks to anesthesia, and your muscles will be fully relaxed. During the session, doctors monitor your brain activity, heart, and other vital signs to ensure everything goes smoothly. Afterward, you'll wake up in a recovery room, and while you might feel confused for a short time, this typically clears up soon. You shouldn't drive or operate equipment after a treatment and your daily activities may be restricted for a period of time.

Once your symptoms improve, your doctor may recommend less frequent ECT treatments combined with other therapies to maintain your progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)? We’ve answered some of the most common ones to help you understand the treatment. Learn about who should consider ECT treatment, risks and whether the therapy is a good fit for you.. Our FAQ section has clear and simple information to guide you in making the best choice for your care.

Who Should Consider ECT?

ECT is often recommended for individuals who:

  • Have severe or treatment-resistant depression
  • Experience extreme mania or bipolar disorder
  • Show signs of catatonia (lack of movement or speech)
  • Suffer from agitation or aggression due to dementia
  • Cannot tolerate medications or are pregnant and need a treatment that is safer for the baby

If you find that other treatments haven't worked or you're experiencing severe symptoms, ECT may provide relief when other options haven't.

Are there any risks with Electroconvulsive Therapy?

As with any medical procedure, ECT does come with potential side effects, but it's considered very safe. Possible side effects include:

  • Temporary confusion after treatment
  • Short-term memory loss, especially around the time of treatment
  • Headaches or muscle soreness
  • Rarely, there may be risks for individuals with serious heart conditions 

Your care team will monitor you closely and address any side effects to ensure your safety and comfort.

Is ECT Right for You?

If you need fast relief or if other treatments haven't been effective, ECT might be the best option. It can be life-changing for people struggling with severe depression, mania, or catatonia. Your doctor will carefully evaluate your condition and health history to determine if ECT is a good fit for you.