ECT as Treatment for My Depression?
Question by ~36w Pregnant with my Sunshine~: ECT as treatment for my depression?
I’ve had severe depression for 7 years now and have been in the hospital 3 times. I’m currently in now trying to get better. My doctor mentioned EST ( Electro Shock Therapy ) to me today as a possible treatment. We haven’t talked much about it but he said we would on a later date if my meds aren’t kicking in in a few days. I’m wondering if people can give me some info about their experiences or some knowledge of the treatment. I’ve looked on some sites on the net but wondering if anyone can give me some personal insight, or know stories of ppl who’ve had it done. Thanks.
Best answer:
Answer by Acid09
From what I’ve read and some of the cases I’ve looked into ECT seems to work in most cases of severe depression. But its not a permanent fix. It seems to only work for about 6 months or so and then you’ll have to get it again. The good news is that they don’t keep you awake for the experience. They will put you under so you will not feel anything. The bad news is that in the long term it’ll damage your brain and nervous system resulting in a variety of side affects – impaired memory, spasms and loss of cognitive abilities.
It also depends on what you have already tried – drugs, therapy etc. If nothing else is working, I mean you said you’ve had this depression for seven years, then it may be the best option. But its only you’re only option either and in my opinion ECT should be used as a last resort because of the damage it can do. Look into alternative forms of therapy. Bio feed back therapy is affective in some cases, for example.
Answer by Bex
Hi —
I’ve had three courses of ECT therapy and it really did help me at the time — at least getting me out of the severe depression range.
I do take anti-depressives but if I were to fall into the zone again, I would consider more shock therapy.
It sort of is a scary concept, but it is safe and it can really help. I wouldn’t suggest it for anybody though.
It does bugger up your memory though (not permanently, just for the time you are getting the shocks …)
Good luck !
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