Electroconvulsive Therapy

How is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) used to treat depression? To answer this question, we must first answer these other questions: What is electroconvulsive therapy? When depression is diagnosed, which patients are suitable for ECT and which for psychotherapy? If not all depressed patients will respond to ECT, how are we to identify those likely to benefit? Invented by Cerletti and Bini, in 1938, ECT was the first form of therapy that reliably reduced severe depression (Abrams …

…brain, it is often considered a last resort treatment when all other methods have failed (Maistro and Morris, 1996). I believe though, whether it is a first or last resort, if you and your doctor feel it will benefit your situation, you should try it. Abrams, R., and Essman W. (Eds.). (1982). Electroconvulsive therapy: Biological foundations and clinical applications. New York: Spectrum Publications. Encarta `95 [computer software]. (1995). Fraser, M. (1982). ECT: A clinical guide. New York: John Wiley & Sons.