ECT (Electro-Convulsive Therapy)

ECT is a treatment for mental illness. It involves electrical stimulation of the brain, by attaching electrodes to the scalp on both hemispheres (bilateral ECT) or on one hemisphere (unilateral ECT).

The person receiving the treatment will be given a muscle relaxant to avoid injury. They are also given something to prevent them from biting their tongue. Brief electric shocks are given through the electrodes and the individual experiences spasms. The treatment is usually given as a course of treatment over at least 6 weeks.

The treatment is usually given when other alternatives have not worked and is most often used in cases of profound and chronic depression.

The reason ECT works is not clear but one theory is that it increases the level of GABA, a neurotransmitter, which calms brain activity.

Strengths of ECT

The treatment can be used when other treatments have not worked.

Weaknesses of ECT

The relapse rate is high.

There can be side effects like memory loss.

It is perceived as barbaric by some individuals and groups, especially as the mechanism of how it works is not clear.