Who is it for?
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is for people with severe depression that has not responded to other treatments. This includes people who have tried multiple medications and/or therapy but have not seen improvement. ECT may also be an option for people who are at risk of suicide or who are experiencing other severe symptoms, such as psychosis or catatonia.
ECT is not a first-line treatment for depression. It is typically only considered when other treatments have failed. However, ECT can be very effective for people with treatment-resistant depression. In fact, it is one of the most effective treatments for severe depression.
If you are considering ECT, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. ECT is a safe and effective treatment for most people, but there are some potential side effects. These side effects are typically mild and go away on their own.
If you are struggling with treatment-resistant depression, please know that there is help available. ECT may be a good option for you. To learn more about ECT, please talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.