What is ECT treatment?

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), also called electroshock therapy, is a medical procedure that involves passing an electric current through the brain to cause a brief mild seizure. It is used to treat severe depression and other mental illnesses that have not responded to other forms of treatment.

During ECT, the patient is given general anesthesia and a muscle relaxant. The electrical current is passed through the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp. The seizure typically lasts for a few seconds and is closely monitored by a team of medical professionals.

ECT is a highly effective treatment for severe depression, with response rates of up to 80%. However, it is also associated with a number of potential side effects, including memory loss, confusion, muscle pain, and headache. These side effects usually go away within a few days, but some people may experience long-term memory loss or other problems.

ECT is typically considered only after other treatments for depression have failed. It is often used in combination with medication, psychotherapy, and other treatments to achieve the best possible outcome.

Here are some additional details about ECT:

* ECT is typically administered on an outpatient basis, meaning that the patient does not need to stay overnight in the hospital.

* The course of treatment usually consists of a series of ECT sessions, typically given two or three times a week.

* The number of treatments needed varies, but the average course of treatment is about 6 to 12 sessions.

* ECT is a safe and effective treatment for severe depression, but it is important to be aware of the potential side effects before deciding if it is right for you.