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What is electroconvulsive therapy?
If you have been diagnosed with a mental health condition and initial treatment has not provided the improvement you had hoped for, your doctor may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
Our experienced caregivers will support you through your treatment with care, understanding, and respect to help you move towards a fuller and more balanced life.
ECT is a well-established and highly effective treatment used for a range of mental health conditions including depression, bipolar disorder and certain psychosis disorders. It is often recommended when symptoms have not responded to medication, or when medications have caused significant side effects.
Our caregivers ensure this procedure is safely and carefully managed. ECT involves the use of anaesthesia and muscle relaxants to ensure patient safety and comfort.
What happens during ECT?
During ECT, a carefully controlled electrical current is applied to the brain while you are under general anaesthesia. This briefly affects the brain’s electrical activity and produces a controlled seizure, which can help relieve symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions.
ECT can provide relatively rapid improvement in symptoms and mood. Our care team works closely with you to ensure you are supported throughout your treatment, as active participation in your care can help achieve the best possible outcomes.
A course of ECT is typically delivered 3 times per week, and the overall length of treatment varies depending on how you respond. In some cases, maintenance treatments may be recommended, with sessions gradually reduced over time to help sustain the benefits.
What to expect on the day of treatment
Before your treatment, you will receive a short-acting general anaesthetic to help you sleep, along with a muscle relaxant to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. The treatment only takes a few minutes, and you will wake up shortly after.
An experienced team including an anaesthetist, psychiatrist and specially trained nurse will be present throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
ECT side effects
As with any medical treatment, ECT may have side effects. These can vary from mild to, less commonly, more severe. Some people experience temporary memory difficulties, most often affecting events that occurred shortly before treatment. A small number of people may feel confused or disoriented upon waking, however, these effects typically resolve within a few hours with support from our caregivers.
Side effects are often more noticeable at the beginning of treatment and tend to lessen as the course progresses. Our caregivers will monitor you closely and discuss any concerns with you along the way.
Benefits of electroconvulsive therapy
ECT can offer multiple benefits, including:
- rapid relief from symptoms
- an alternative for people who are unable to take medication
- improvement in mood and overall wellbeing
The benefits of ECT can vary depending on your individual circumstances. Your specialist will work with you to determine whether this treatment is appropriate and to support you in making an informed decision about your care.