Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
A treatment used for severe depression that doesn't respond to medication. It is safe and effective.
Details
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a procedure performed under general anesthesia in which brief electrical stimulation is delivered to the brain to induce a therapeutic seizure.
Unlike what you may have seen in movies, modern ECT is administered safely using anesthesia and muscle relaxants. It is one of the fastest and most effective treatments for treatment-resistant depression, catatonia, and acute suicidal crises.
There may be stigma around it, but in reality, ECT is an important treatment that has saved many lives. — Mindy
💡 Real-Life Example
"A treatment considered when depression doesn't improve after trying multiple medications."
Related Terms
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.