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<!DOCTYPE html><html lang="en"><head> <link rel=preload href="https://assets.psychcentral.com/_next/vendor-5bf71-legacy.js" as=script crossorigin=anonymous><link rel=preload href="https://assets.psychcentral.com/_next/lib-77798-legacy.js" as=script crossorigin=anonymous><link rel=preload href="https://assets.psychcentral.com/_next/felib-core-db794-legacy.js" as=script crossorigin=anonymous><link rel=preload href="https://assets.psychcentral.com/_next/68871671-d63b-4bae-b972-3c02f92839ec/psy/pages/infinite.js-legacy.js" as=script crossorigin=anonymous> <title>An Overview of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://psychcentral.com/depression/an-overview-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect"/><meta name="description" content="Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be considered for depression when other traditional therapies have not worked. It's not commonly used and only recommended as a last resort. 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She’s passionate about providing accurate, empathetic mental health content for readers, and believes writing can help combat stigma and improve wellness outcomes. Hope’s early career focused on health disparities affecting marginalized groups, and she remains a firm advocate for health equity.</p>\n"},"avatar":{"title":"","src":""}}],"medicalReviewers":[{"id":4990,"name":{"display":"Nicole Washington, DO, MPH","first":"Nicole","last":"Washington, DO, MPH"},"userLogin":"nwashington","links":{"website":"http://www.drnicolepsych.com","facebook":"www.facebook.com/drnicolepsych","linkedin":"www.linkedin/in/drnicolepsych","twitter":"www.twitter.com/drnicolepsych","instagram":"www.instagram.com/drnicolepsych","tiktok":"https://www.tiktok.com/@drnicolepsych"},"link":"/reviewers/nicole-washington-do-mph","type":{"value":"medical_reviewer","label":"Medical Advisor"},"nid":"164742","specialties":[],"guestTitle":"","bio":{"text":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr. Nicole Washington is an </span><a href=\"https://www.abms.org/board-certification/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ABMS board certified</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> psychiatrist and the chief medical officer of Elocin Psychiatric Services, a primarily virtual practice where she focuses on the mental health needs of the busy professional. Dr. Washington has spent most of her career caring and advocating for people who aren’t typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities and high-performing professionals.</span></p>\n<p><strong>Education</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO</span></li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">University of Illinois at Chicago, MPH</span></li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Psychiatric Residency</span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><strong>Certifications</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology – Psychiatry</span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><strong>Professional Accomplishments</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Author of “From Introspection to Action: The High-Level Professional’s 28 Day Journey to Improving Mental Health”</span></li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Podcast host of “The C-Suite Confidant”</span></li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Completed an internship at Griffin Memorial Hospital</span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><strong>Affiliations</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https://www.psychiatry.org/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Psychiatric Association (APA)</span></a></li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https://www.blackpsychiatrists.org/about\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Black Psychiatrists of America (BPA)</span></a></li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https://www.oklapsychiatry.org/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oklahoma Psychiatric Physicians Association (OPPA)</span></a></li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https://www.nmanet.org/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Medical Association (NMA)</span></a></li>\n</ul>\n"},"avatar":{"title":"","width":500,"height":500,"src":"https://post.psychcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Nicole-Washington-500x500-Bio.png"}}],"id":"psy-48878","updateReason":[],"editor":"Christina Ward","factCheckedBy":"","factCheckers":[],"articleHistory":{"2016-05-17":{"updateReason":[],"authors":"John Hauser, M.D.","medicallyReviewedBy":"Scientific Advisory Board"},"2021-04-26":{"updateReason":[],"authors":"Hope Gillette","editor":"Christina Ward","copyEditor":"Douglas Backstrom","medicallyReviewedBy":"Nicole Washington, DO, MPH"}},"articleDates":{"factChecked":{"date":null,"display":""},"medicallyReviewed":{"date":1619395200,"display":"April 26, 2021"},"published":{"date":1463463237,"display":"May 17, 2016"},"lastUpdates":{"date":1619395200,"display":"April 26, 2021"},"modified":{"date":1730832605,"display":"November 5, 2024"}},"type":"healthfeature","language":"en"},"cesData":{"metaDescription":"Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be considered for depression when other traditional therapies have not worked. 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She holds a PhD in molecular biology and master’s degree in bioinformatics. During her time in graduate school, Morgan realized that her true passions lie in science communication and outreach. Her goal as a writer is to translate complex medical and scientific ideas into a format that is clear, informative, and actionable for all. When she isn’t behind her computer, Morgan enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and tackling new house projects. Find her on her <a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https://www.truenorthmedicalwriting.com/\">website</a>.</p>\n"},"avatar":{"title":"","width":500,"height":500,"src":"https://post.psychcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Morgan-Meissner-500x500-Bio.png"}}],"reviewedByHeader":"Medically reviewed by"},{"title":["Top Relapse Triggers for Depression & How to Prevent Them"],"text":["Relapse after depression treatment is not uncommon. Understanding your triggers and having a relapse plan will help you prevent one from happening."],"link":"/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them","imageAlt":"Top Relapse Triggers for Depression & How to Prevent Them","thumbnail":"https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/02/portrait-serious-female-sad-home-732x549-thumbnail-732x549.jpg","medicallyReviewedBy":{"reviewerName":"Vara Saripalli, Psy.D.","reviewerImage":{"path":"https://post.psychcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vara-Saripalli-500x500-Bio.png","width":200,"height":200,"altText":""}},"isNutrition":false,"authors":[{"id":5038,"name":{"display":"Hope Gillette","first":"Hope","last":"Gillette"},"userLogin":"hgillette","links":{"website":"","facebook":"","linkedin":"","twitter":"","instagram":"","tiktok":""},"link":"/authors/hope-gillette","type":{"value":"author","label":"Author"},"nid":"","specialties":[],"guestTitle":"","bio":{"text":"<p>Hope Gillette is a freelance writer and published novelist. 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class="css-ifmqwy"></div></div><div class="css-16wahxh"><aside class="css-1wm8u43" data-testid="header-leaderboard" data-sticky="true"><div data-empty="true" class="css-1j2d96m"><div class="css-1hjaa0k"><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div id="dlb1__slot" data-adbridg-ad-class="dlb1" data-ad="true" class="css-1jpwf16"></div></div></aside></div><aside data-testid="mobile-leaderboard" class="css-pdceuf"><div class="css-11egx89"><button class="icon-hl-close-thick css-1ik4tkj"></button><div data-empty="true" class="css-1fteite"><div class="css-1hjaa0k"><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div id="mlb1__slot" data-adbridg-ad-class="mlb1" data-ad="true" class="css-bcus5s"></div></div></div></aside><div data-placement="subheader"></div><div><div class="css-m260rd"><div data-article-body="0" class="css-blwnmv"><div class="css-z468a2"><h1>An Overview of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)</h1><div data-preamp="social-proof-lessons"></div><div data-testid="byline"><section data-testid="byline" class="css-eoj89x"><div class="css-1q67gt9"><div class="css-xc63cd"><img src="//i0.wp.com/post.psychcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Nicole-Washington-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105" alt=""/></div></div><div><span><span>Medically reviewed by <a class="css-150s69f css-130mbve" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/reviewers/nicole-washington-do-mph">Nicole Washington, DO, MPH</a></span></span> — <span><span><span><span>Written by <a class="css-150s69f css-130mbve" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/authors/hope-gillette">Hope Gillette</a></span></span></span></span> — <span> Updated on April 26, 2021</span></div></section></div><div><nav id="tab-bar-0" data-testid="tab-bar" class="css-7u7i0a"><ul class="css-17ztj4b"><li class="css-t753mo"><a href="#what-is-it" class="css-yn6ido">What is it?</a></li><li class="css-t753mo"><a href="#how-it-works" class="css-yn6ido">How it works</a></li><li class="css-t753mo"><a href="#when-its-used" class="css-yn6ido">When it's used</a></li><li class="css-t753mo"><a href="#how-it-helps-depression" class="css-yn6ido">How it helps depression</a></li><li class="css-t753mo"><a href="#what-happens" class="css-yn6ido">What happens</a></li><li class="css-t753mo"><a href="#risks" class="css-yn6ido">Risks</a></li><li class="css-t753mo"><a href="#lets-recap" class="css-yn6ido">Let's recap</a></li></ul></nav><article class="article-body css-d2znx6 undefined"><div class="css-12va8w7"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><div><p class="css-w2pt6r">When medication and talk therapy don’t work to ease your depression, your doctor might recommend electroconvulsive therapy.</p></div></div><div><p>Indifference, sadness, and irritability are part of living with depression. But when your symptoms don’t improve even with traditional therapies, you may wonder if you’ll ever find relief.</p></div><div><div data-preamp="serena-chatbot"></div></div><div><p>Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), or the therapeutic application of electrical currents to the brain, may sound intimidating, but it might be a helpful option for you.</p></div><div><p>The use of ECT is highly uncommon and considered only as a last resort.</p></div><div class="css-20w1gi"><aside class="css-0 css-0" data-testid="sticky-inline-ad" data-sticky="false"><div><div data-empty="true" class="css-1sq15os"><div class="css-1hjaa0k"><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div id="inline2__slot" data-adbridg-ad-class="inline2__slot" data-ad="true" class="css-1t05dkn"></div></div></div></aside></div></div><div class="css-1avyp1d"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><h2><div><a class="chartbeat-section" name="what-is-it">What is electroconvulsive therapy?</a></div></h2></div><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><p>Electroconvulsive therapy is rarely used. </p></div><div><p>An <a href="https://journals.lww.com/ectjournal/Abstract/2016/12000/The_Prevalence_of_Electroconvulsive_Therapy_Use.6.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="content-link css-150s69f">analysis</a> of studies worldwide found that it was used to treat only approximately 0.02% of people with treatment-resistant depression – depression that has not improved with other treatments.</p></div><div><p>Due to this therapy’s quick results compared to medication and talk therapy, it may be a choice for you if you’re experiencing:</p></div><div><ul><li>hallucinations</li><li>delusions</li><li>extreme paranoia</li><li>suicide ideation</li></ul></div><div><p>During ECT, an electric current is used to trigger a seizure in the brain. The session takes place under anesthesia, and muscle relaxants are administered to ensure you remain injury-free.</p></div><div><p>The entire session lasts 5-10 minutes.</p></div><div><p>In the 1930s, when this therapy was first developed, it was known as “electroshock therapy.” At the time, injuries were common, muscle relaxants weren’t available, and patients didn’t have the benefit of anesthesia.</p></div><div><p>Modern ECT is far safer, though it remains one of the most controversial treatment options in modern psychiatry.</p></div><div><p>There are two main types of ECT used, determined by where the electrodes are placed on the head.</p></div><div><ul><li><strong>Bilateral ECT.</strong> Electrodes are placed on opposites sides of the head to affect the entire brain.</li><li><strong>Unilateral ECT.</strong> One electrode is placed on the top of the head and one on the temple for single-sided brain treatment.</li></ul></div><div><p>Your medical team may decide to try unilateral ECT first. This type of ECT is often just as effective as bilateral ECT but may have fewer memory-related side effects.</p></div><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div class="css-1avyp1d"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><h2><div><a class="chartbeat-section" name="how-it-works">How does it work?</a></div></h2></div><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><p>A brief pulse of electricity is sent through the brain, typically for 0.5 to 2.0 milliseconds (ms). Ultra-brief pulses of less than 0.5 ms are considered more tolerable and may be used to help minimize any potential memory loss.</p></div><div><p>This electrical pulse causes a seizure that lasts 15 to 70 seconds. During this time, your medical team monitors your body, which is under anesthesia.</p></div><div><p>When the seizure has concluded, your brain goes into a post-seizure quiet state, often considered a “reset.” This can result in a decrease in depression symptoms. </p></div><div><p>The antidepressant effects of successful ECT have been known to last for years.</p></div><div class="css-20w1gi"><aside class="css-0 css-0" data-testid="sticky-inline-ad" data-sticky="false"><div><div data-empty="true" class="css-1sq15os"><div class="css-1hjaa0k"><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div id="inline7__slot" data-adbridg-ad-class="inline7__slot" data-ad="true" class="css-1t05dkn"></div></div></div></aside></div></div><div class="css-1avyp1d"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><h2><div><a class="chartbeat-section" name="when-its-used">When is ECT used?</a></div></h2></div><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><p>If your symptoms of depression are not improving with medications and talk therapies, ECT becomes a possible option.</p></div><div><p>ECT can quickly improve your symptoms. It may be recommended if depression is causing you major impairment during your day-to-day activities or if you’re experiencing symptoms of psychosis.</p></div><div><p>Psychosis – when your brain loses the ability to identify reality – may cause hallucinations and delusions, both of which can pose safety concerns for you and those around you.</p></div><div><p>ECT is primarily used to treat major depression, but it may also be a part of treatment for:</p></div><div><ul><li>schizophrenia</li><li>schizoaffective disorder</li><li>catatonia</li><li>neuroleptic malignant syndrome</li><li>bipolar disorder</li></ul></div><div><p>ECT is one of the few treatments for depression considered safe for pregnant women and older people because of minimal medication-related side effects.</p></div><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div class="css-1avyp1d"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><h2><div><a class="chartbeat-section" name="how-it-helps-depression">How does it help depression?</a></div></h2></div><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><p>The exact reasons behind the effectiveness of ECT are not well understood. Overall, ECT is known to change blood flow and regional metabolism in the brain.</p></div><div><p>Within that process, many factors are linked. <hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health"><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6323557/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="content-link css-150s69f">Research</a></hl-trusted-source> supports a number of theories, including how this therapy may:</p></div><div><ul><li>reset the brain’s chemical messaging system for dopamine and serotonin</li><li>create an anti-inflammatory response in the brain linked to cytokines</li><li>increase blood-brain barrier permeability</li><li>influence genetic expression</li><li>improve brain plasticity</li><li>encourage the production of new neurons</li></ul></div><div><p>In 2017, research published in the journal <hl-trusted-source source="Nature" rationale="Highly respected journal,Expert written journal,Peer reviewed journal"><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/npp2017252" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="content-link css-150s69f">Neuropsychopharmacology</a></hl-trusted-source> suggested ECT used for depression caused molecular changes in the brain. These changes allowed better communication between neurons in the same area of the brain responsive to antidepressants.</p></div><div><p>Several <hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health"><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4000084/#:~:text=Data%20from%20the%20National%20Institute,older%20received%20ECT%20%5B5%5D." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="content-link css-150s69f">comparative trials</a></hl-trusted-source> have established greater antidepressant effects with ECT than medication. </p></div><div><p>ECT also has a higher remission rate: You’ll likely remain free of depression symptoms longer than if you were relying on only medication.</p></div><div><p>Even though the mechanisms behind why ECT works are not well understood, the therapy is considered highly effective. It is supported by the American Psychiatric Association, American Medical Association, and the National Institutes of Mental Health.</p></div><div class="css-20w1gi"><aside class="css-0 css-0" data-testid="sticky-inline-ad" data-sticky="false"><div><div data-empty="true" class="css-1sq15os"><div class="css-1hjaa0k"><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div id="inline12__slot" data-adbridg-ad-class="inline12__slot" data-ad="true" class="css-1t05dkn"></div></div></div></aside></div></div><div class="css-1avyp1d"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><h2><div><a class="chartbeat-section" name="what-happens">What happens during an ECT procedure?</a></div></h2></div><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><p>Before you undergo your first ECT session, you’ll need a medical exam and a psychiatric evaluation.</p></div><div><p>Once you’ve been approved for therapy, your doctor will speak with you about food and drink restrictions before ECT. Many anesthetic procedures require patients to limit or cease food intake due to side effects such as nausea and vomiting.</p></div><div><p>Certain medications may have to be stopped or decreased before the procedure if they can interfere with seizure induction.</p></div><div><p>When you arrive at the ECT location, your medical staff will administer muscle relaxants and place you under general anesthesia. </p></div><div><p>All vital signs, including your blood oxygen saturation levels, will be monitored. Also, a bite block will be placed to protect your teeth and tongue.</p></div><div><p>Two electrodes will then be positioned on your scalp for bilateral or unilateral stimulation. An electric current will pass between the electrodes for up to 2 ms to induce a seizure response that lasts approximately a minute.</p></div><div><p>During the seizure, your reactions are closely monitored, with safety as the top priority. </p></div><div><p>Within 5-10 minutes, your ECT treatment is over. You’ll then be taken to a quiet area to recover from the effects of anesthesia.</p></div><div><p>You’ll most likely be able to return home the same day as your ECT session.</p></div><div><p>Treatments typically occur 2-3 times a week for 6 to 12 treatments, according to the <a href="https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ect" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="content-link css-150s69f">American Psychiatric Association</a>. Some people experience a notable improvement in as little as 3 weeks.</p></div><div><p>Once you know how ECT affects you, you and your doctor can develop an ECT maintenance schedule that allows you to benefit from ECT with as few follow-up sessions as possible.</p></div><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div class="css-1avyp1d"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><h2><div><a class="chartbeat-section" name="risks">What are the risks of ECT?</a></div></h2></div><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><p>As with most procedures, there are some potential <a href="https://psychcentral.com/lib/risks-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect#3" class="content-link css-150s69f">complications from ECT</a>. Before your ECT session, your doctor will explain general complications and any side effects related to your personal health and history that may occur.</p></div><div><p>Here are some common side effects of ECT.</p></div><div><h3>Memory loss</h3></div><div><p>After ECT, you may have difficulty remembering events leading up to the procedure. This is called retrograde amnesia and is common in ECT patients.</p></div><div><p>Memory loss may be more extreme for some people, lasting longer and affecting other memories. Almost everyone who receives ECT experiences some memory loss. Most people have an improvement in memory a few weeks post-treatment.</p></div><div><p>There’s no way to predict what level of memory loss you may experience. In some cases, memory loss is permanent.</p></div><div><h3>Concentration and attention problems</h3></div><div><p>Post ECT treatment, you may also have difficulty focusing or concentrating. This side effect often clears up a few weeks after your treatment session. Some people, though, may experience this long-term.</p></div><div><h3>General confusion</h3></div><div><p>Immediately after your ECT session, you may experience confusion. This resolves after a few hours for most people, but it can sometimes take days to go away. </p></div><div><p>Confusion may make you question where you are, who is with you, or what you are doing.</p></div><div><h3>Physical reactions</h3></div><div><p>ECT may cause you some temporary physical reactions such as:</p></div><div><ul><li>vomiting</li><li>nausea</li><li>headaches</li><li>muscles aches and spasms </li></ul></div><div><p>These effects generally resolve within hours or days after therapy.</p></div><div><h3>Other potential complications</h3></div><div><p>ECT is not for everyone. Your doctor may <em>not</em> recommend this therapy if you have:</p></div><div><ul><li>severe cardiovascular disease</li><li>a space-occupying intracranial lesion with evidence of elevated intracranial pressure</li><li>history of an acute cerebral hemorrhage or stroke</li><li>an unstable vascular aneurysm</li><li>severe lung disease</li></ul></div><div><p>You’ll also want to consider the possible complications of anesthesia before undergoing ECT.</p></div></div><div class="css-1avyp1d"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><h2><div><a class="chartbeat-section" name="lets-recap">Let’s recap</a></div></h2></div><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div><p>ECT is an effective therapy option for treatment-resistant depression and other select disorders. </p></div><div><p>Compared to medication and talk therapy, ETC often provides faster results. It is considered safe for pregnant women and older patients.</p></div><div><p>Most people experience some form of memory loss after ECT. There is no way to predict how serious your memory loss will be.</p></div><div><p>If you feel current therapies are not improving depression symptoms, consider talking with your doctors about ECT. It’s not your fault medication and talk therapy have not made an impact on your symptoms.</p></div><div><div id="widget_call_out_ea8bad82-7a55-4a6f-8a87-6538e13b3119" class="css-ubcbi5"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><div class="css-14hk5xp"><div class="css-xqvouu"><h3 class="css-9zytxy"><div><span class="css-14sy2z4">If you need immediate help:</span></div></h3><div class="css-slwzda"><p class="standout--body">If you or a loved one are considering self-harm or suicide, you’re not alone. Help is available right now:</p><ul id="block-1784e10e-e659-4d49-8572-a954359c5f10"><li>Text or call 988, or chat <a href="http://988lifeline.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="content-link css-150s69f">988lifeline.org</a>.</li><li>Text “HOME” to the <a href="https://www.crisistextline.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsPDQrdXH5wIVBRx9Ch1YdQjIEAAYASAAEgJ_1_D_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="content-link css-150s69f">Crisis Text Line</a> at 741741.</li></ul><p>If you or a loved one are experiencing psychosis or need immediate help, call emergency services at 911.</p></div></div></div><div class="css-1uwjw6e"><div></div><div></div></div></div></div></div></article><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div><div class="css-w9ag5x"><div class="css-1xn3edc"><div aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="article-resources" class="css-1l48sh1" role="button"><p class="css-1dxissy"><span class="css-1p6d3md icon-hlvideo-minus"></span><span class="css-1p6d3md icon-hlvideo-plus"></span> <span class="css-1xdhyk6">8 sources</span><span class="sro">collapsed</span></p></div><div id="article-resources" role="region" class="css-1ugaz02"><ul class="css-1vedeqe"><li class="css-f6pdvi"><cite><span>Gazdag G, et al. (2019). Electroconvulsive therapy: 80 years old and still going strong.</span><br/><a class="css-150s69f css-138ocmy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6323557/">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6323557/</a></cite></li><li class="css-f6pdvi"><cite><span>Kerner N, et al. (2014). Current electroconvulsive therapy practice and research in the geriatric population. </span><br/><a class="css-150s69f css-138ocmy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4000084/#:~:text=Data%20from%20the%20National%20Institute,older%20received%20ECT%20%5B5%5D">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4000084/#:~:text=Data%20from%20the%20National%20Institute,older%20received%20ECT%20%5B5%5D</a></cite></li><li class="css-f6pdvi"><cite><span>Lesage A, et al. (2016). The prevalence of electroconvulsive therapy use since 1973: A meta-analysis.</span><br/><a class="css-150s69f css-138ocmy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://journals.lww.com/ectjournal/Abstract/2016/12000/The_Prevalence_of_Electroconvulsive_Therapy_Use.6.aspx">https://journals.lww.com/ectjournal/Abstract/2016/12000/The_Prevalence_of_Electroconvulsive_Therapy_Use.6.aspx</a></cite></li><li class="css-f6pdvi"><cite><span>Li M, et al. (2020). Effects of electroconvulsive therapy on depression and its potential mechanism.</span><br/><a class="css-150s69f css-138ocmy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7044268/">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7044268/</a></cite></li><li class="css-f6pdvi"><cite><span>Lye M, et al. (2020) Predictors of recurrence of major depressive disorder.</span><br/><a class="css-150s69f css-138ocmy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0230363">https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0230363</a></cite></li><li class="css-f6pdvi"><cite><span>Major depression. (2019).</span><br/><a class="css-150s69f css-138ocmy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml">https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml</a></cite></li><li class="css-f6pdvi"><cite><span>Reti I. (n.d.). Electroconvulsive therapy today.</span><br/><a class="css-150s69f css-138ocmy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/specialty_areas/brain_stimulation/docs/depbulletin407_ect_extract.pdf">https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/specialty_areas/brain_stimulation/docs/depbulletin407_ect_extract.pdf</a></cite></li><li class="css-f6pdvi"><cite><span>What is electroconvulsive therapy? (2019).</span><br/><a class="css-150s69f css-138ocmy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ect">https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ect</a></cite></li></ul></div></div><div class="css-1wkzy2"><div class="css-1ytasfq"><div class="button-wrapper print"><a class="css-1uhtj6l print button icon icon-hl-print" target="_blank" title="Print this page"></a></div><div class="button-wrapper facebook"><a class="css-1uhtj6l facebook button icon icon-hl-facebook" href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fdepression%2Fan-overview-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dfacebook%26utm_campaign%3Dsocial-sharebar-referred-desktop" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank" title="Share on Facebook"></a></div><div class="button-wrapper twitter"><a class="css-1uhtj6l twitter button icon icon-hl-twitter" 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button clicks">Risks of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)</a><p class=""><a class="css-onvglr" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/lib/risks-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|1" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Risks of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)|rn0" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/lib/risks-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="text-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Modern electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for severe, chro</a></p><a class="css-1culwpr css-2dy712" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/lib/risks-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|1" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Risks of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)|rn0" 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class="css-1fb1nmp"><span class="css-a10gts"></span></span></div></a></figure><div class="css-h0zs0i"><a class="css-11ivwxm" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/lib/risks-and-side-effects-of-ect;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|2" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Risks and Side Effects of ECT|rn1" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/lib/risks-and-side-effects-of-ect?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="title-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">Risks and Side Effects of ECT</a><p class=""><a class="css-onvglr" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/lib/risks-and-side-effects-of-ect;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|2" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Risks and Side Effects of ECT|rn1" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/lib/risks-and-side-effects-of-ect?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="text-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Lawrence Park, AM, MD presented to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Neurological Devices Panel examining </a></p><a class="css-1culwpr css-2dy712" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/lib/risks-and-side-effects-of-ect;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|2" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Risks and Side Effects of ECT|rn1" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/lib/risks-and-side-effects-of-ect?utm_source=ReadNext" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">READ MORE<span class="icon-hl-arrow-right-bold selector css-2kgwd5"></span></a></div></div></div><section class="css-82r5pg css-1ub4i5m"></section></div></div></li><li class="css-12weawj"><div class="css-m260rd"><div class="css-1h1rean"><div class="css-1r7frvz"><div class="css-lm0pdr"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><figure class="css-1e4ja14 css-f0t0lw"><a class="css-1uhtj6l" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|3" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|What Is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?|rn2" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms?utm_source=ReadNext" aria-label="image-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" data-testid="image-link" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><div class="css-79elbk"><span class="css-rwmw5v css-1pf0x3y"><span class="css-1767n2d"><lazy-image alt="What Is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?" src="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/07/female-repetitive-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-732-549-feature-thumb-732x549.jpg" srcSet="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/07/female-repetitive-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-732-549-feature-thumb-732x549.jpg 200w" className="css-1lyqwde"></lazy-image></span></span><span class="css-1fb1nmp"><span class="css-a10gts"></span></span></div></a></figure><div class="css-h0zs0i"><a class="css-11ivwxm" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|3" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|What Is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?|rn2" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="title-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">What Is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?</a><p class=""><a class="css-onvglr" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|3" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|What Is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?|rn2" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="text-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">rTMS may be best for people experiencing treatment-resistent depression. </a></p><a class="css-1culwpr css-2dy712" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|3" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|What Is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?|rn2" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms?utm_source=ReadNext" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">READ MORE<span class="icon-hl-arrow-right-bold selector css-2kgwd5"></span></a></div></div></div><section class="css-82r5pg css-1ub4i5m"><div data-empty="true" class="css-vhteyv"><div class="css-1hjaa0k"><span class="css-zya54r"></span></div><div id="DCMR2__slot" 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src="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/03/Male_iPad_Coffee_732x549-thumbnail-732x549.jpg" srcSet="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/03/Male_iPad_Coffee_732x549-thumbnail-732x549.jpg 200w" className="css-1lyqwde"></lazy-image></span></span><span class="css-1fb1nmp"><span class="css-a10gts"></span></span></div></a></figure><div class="css-h0zs0i"><a class="css-11ivwxm" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/depression-treatment;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|4" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Treating Depression: What Are My Options?|rn3" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-treatment?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="title-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">Treating Depression: What Are My Options?</a><section data-testid="byline" class="css-ymf4ha"><div class="css-1pz7193"><div class="css-xc63cd"><lazy-image alt="" src="//i0.wp.com/post.psychcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Marney-White-500x500-Bio.png?w=73&h=73"></lazy-image></div></div><div><span><span>Medically reviewed by <a class="css-150s69f css-130mbve" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team">Marney A. White, PhD, MS</a></span></span></div></section><p class=""><a class="css-onvglr" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/depression-treatment;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|4" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Treating Depression: What Are My Options?|rn3" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-treatment?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="text-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your depression treatment options are almost limitless. Medication, therapy, brain stimulation techniques, or self-help strategies could work for you.</a></p><a class="css-1culwpr css-2dy712" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/depression-treatment;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|4" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Treating Depression: What Are My Options?|rn3" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/depression-treatment?utm_source=ReadNext" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">READ MORE<span class="icon-hl-arrow-right-bold selector css-2kgwd5"></span></a></div></div></div><section class="css-82r5pg css-1ub4i5m"></section></div></div></li><li class="css-12weawj"><div class="css-m260rd"><div class="css-1h1rean"><div class="css-1r7frvz"><div class="css-lm0pdr"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><figure class="css-1e4ja14 css-f0t0lw"><a class="css-1uhtj6l" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/treatment-resistant-depression;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|5" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|What To Do When Your Antidepressant Isn’t Helping Enough|rn4" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-resistant-depression?utm_source=ReadNext" aria-label="image-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" data-testid="image-link" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><div class="css-79elbk"><span class="css-rwmw5v css-1pf0x3y"><span class="css-1767n2d"><lazy-image alt="What To Do When Your Antidepressant Isn’t Helping Enough" src="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/03/PC_Female_Portrait_732x549-thumbnail.jpg" srcSet="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/03/PC_Female_Portrait_732x549-thumbnail.jpg 200w" className="css-1lyqwde"></lazy-image></span></span><span class="css-1fb1nmp"><span class="css-a10gts"></span></span></div></a></figure><div class="css-h0zs0i"><a class="css-11ivwxm" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/treatment-resistant-depression;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|5" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|What To Do When Your Antidepressant Isn’t Helping Enough|rn4" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-resistant-depression?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="title-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">What To Do When Your Antidepressant Isn’t Helping Enough</a><section data-testid="byline" class="css-ymf4ha"><div class="css-1pz7193"><div class="css-xc63cd"><lazy-image alt="" src="//i0.wp.com/post.psychcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/New-Matthew-Boland-500x500-Bio.png?w=73&h=73"></lazy-image></div></div><div><span><span>Medically reviewed by <a class="css-150s69f css-130mbve" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team">Matthew Boland, PhD</a></span></span></div></section><p class=""><a class="css-onvglr" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/treatment-resistant-depression;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|5" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|What To Do When Your Antidepressant Isn’t Helping Enough|rn4" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-resistant-depression?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="text-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">If you're living with treatment-resistant depression, there are a few alternative treatments to consider.</a></p><a class="css-1culwpr css-2dy712" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/treatment-resistant-depression;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|5" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|What To Do When Your Antidepressant Isn’t Helping Enough|rn4" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/treatment-resistant-depression?utm_source=ReadNext" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">READ MORE<span class="icon-hl-arrow-right-bold selector css-2kgwd5"></span></a></div></div></div><section class="css-82r5pg css-1ub4i5m"></section></div></div></li><li class="css-12weawj"><div class="css-m260rd"><div class="css-1h1rean"><div class="css-1r7frvz"><div class="css-lm0pdr"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><figure class="css-1e4ja14 css-f0t0lw"><a class="css-1uhtj6l" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|6" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Top Relapse Triggers for Depression & How to Prevent Them|rn5" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them?utm_source=ReadNext" aria-label="image-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" data-testid="image-link" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><div class="css-79elbk"><span class="css-rwmw5v css-1pf0x3y"><span class="css-1767n2d"><lazy-image alt="Top Relapse Triggers for Depression & How to Prevent Them" src="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/02/portrait-serious-female-sad-home-732x549-thumbnail-732x549.jpg" srcSet="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/02/portrait-serious-female-sad-home-732x549-thumbnail-732x549.jpg 200w" className="css-1lyqwde"></lazy-image></span></span><span class="css-1fb1nmp"><span class="css-a10gts"></span></span></div></a></figure><div class="css-h0zs0i"><a class="css-11ivwxm" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|6" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Top Relapse Triggers for Depression & How to Prevent Them|rn5" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="title-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">Top Relapse Triggers for Depression & How to Prevent Them</a><section data-testid="byline" class="css-ymf4ha"><div class="css-1pz7193"><div class="css-xc63cd"><lazy-image alt="" src="//i0.wp.com/post.psychcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Vara-Saripalli-500x500-Bio.png?w=73&h=73"></lazy-image></div></div><div><span><span>Medically reviewed by <a class="css-150s69f css-130mbve" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/medical-team">Vara Saripalli, Psy.D.</a></span></span></div></section><p class=""><a class="css-onvglr" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|6" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Top Relapse Triggers for Depression & How to Prevent Them|rn5" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="text-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Relapse after depression treatment is not uncommon. Understanding your triggers and having a relapse plan will help you prevent one from happening.</a></p><a class="css-1culwpr css-2dy712" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|6" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Top Relapse Triggers for Depression & How to Prevent Them|rn5" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/top-relapse-triggers-for-depression-how-to-prevent-them?utm_source=ReadNext" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">READ MORE<span class="icon-hl-arrow-right-bold selector css-2kgwd5"></span></a></div></div></div><section class="css-82r5pg css-1ub4i5m"></section></div></div></li><li class="css-12weawj"><div class="css-m260rd"><div class="css-1h1rean"><div class="css-1r7frvz"><div class="css-lm0pdr"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><figure class="css-1e4ja14 css-f0t0lw"><a class="css-1uhtj6l" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/psychotic-depression;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|7" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|All About Psychotic Depression|rn6" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/psychotic-depression?utm_source=ReadNext" aria-label="image-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" data-testid="image-link" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><div class="css-79elbk"><span class="css-rwmw5v css-1pf0x3y"><span class="css-1767n2d"><lazy-image alt="All About Psychotic Depression" src="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/11/motion-blur-man-against-sky-732x549-thumbnail-732x549.jpg" srcSet="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/11/motion-blur-man-against-sky-732x549-thumbnail-732x549.jpg 200w" className="css-1lyqwde"></lazy-image></span></span><span class="css-1fb1nmp"><span class="css-a10gts"></span></span></div></a></figure><div class="css-h0zs0i"><a class="css-11ivwxm" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/psychotic-depression;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|7" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|All About Psychotic Depression|rn6" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/psychotic-depression?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="title-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">All About Psychotic Depression</a><p class=""><a class="css-onvglr" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/psychotic-depression;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|7" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|All About Psychotic Depression|rn6" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/psychotic-depression?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="text-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Psychotic depression, aka major depressive disorder with psychotic features, occurs when you have depression and also experience psychosis symptoms. </a></p><a class="css-1culwpr css-2dy712" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/depression/psychotic-depression;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|7" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|All About Psychotic Depression|rn6" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/depression/psychotic-depression?utm_source=ReadNext" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">READ MORE<span class="icon-hl-arrow-right-bold selector css-2kgwd5"></span></a></div></div></div><section class="css-82r5pg css-1ub4i5m"></section></div></div></li><li class="css-12weawj"><div class="css-m260rd"><div class="css-1h1rean"><div class="css-1r7frvz"><div class="css-lm0pdr"><span style="font-size:0;line-height:0"></span><figure class="css-1e4ja14 css-f0t0lw"><a class="css-1uhtj6l" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/health/obedience-psychology;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|8" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Understanding the Concept of Obedience in Psychology|rn7" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/health/obedience-psychology?utm_source=ReadNext" aria-label="image-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" data-testid="image-link" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><div class="css-79elbk"><span class="css-rwmw5v css-1pf0x3y"><span class="css-1767n2d"><lazy-image alt="Understanding the Concept of Obedience in Psychology" src="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2024/11/group-of-army-soldiers-standing-in-line-discipline-732x549-thumbnail.jpg" srcSet="https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2024/11/group-of-army-soldiers-standing-in-line-discipline-732x549-thumbnail.jpg 200w" className="css-1lyqwde"></lazy-image></span></span><span class="css-1fb1nmp"><span class="css-a10gts"></span></span></div></a></figure><div class="css-h0zs0i"><a class="css-11ivwxm" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/health/obedience-psychology;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|8" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Understanding the Concept of Obedience in Psychology|rn7" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/health/obedience-psychology?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="title-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks">Understanding the Concept of Obedience in Psychology</a><p class=""><a class="css-onvglr" data-event="engagement|bottom page content promo click|/health/obedience-psychology;engagement|bottom page content promo click index|8" data-element-event="INTERNAL LINK|FOOTER|Any Page|Read This Next|LINK|Understanding the Concept of Obedience in Psychology|rn7" href="https://www.psychcentral.com/health/obedience-psychology?utm_source=ReadNext" data-testid="text-link" data-ga4="Read Next button clicks" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Obedience is the willingness to adhere to customs, traditions, and laws. 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She\u0026#8217;s passionate about providing accurate, empathetic mental health content for readers, and believes writing can help combat stigma and improve wellness outcomes. Hope’s early career focused on health disparities affecting marginalized groups, and she remains a firm advocate for health equity.\u003c/p\u003e\n"},"avatar":{"title":"","src":""},"bioBlurb":{"nodes":["Hope Gillette is a freelance writer and published novelist. She’s passionate about providing accurate, empathetic mental health content for readers, and…"]}}],"medicalReviewers":[{"id":4990,"name":{"display":"Nicole Washington, DO, MPH","first":"Nicole","last":"Washington, DO, MPH"},"userLogin":"nwashington","links":{"website":"http://www.drnicolepsych.com","facebook":"www.facebook.com/drnicolepsych","linkedin":"www.linkedin/in/drnicolepsych","twitter":"www.twitter.com/drnicolepsych","instagram":"www.instagram.com/drnicolepsych","tiktok":"https://www.tiktok.com/@drnicolepsych"},"link":"/reviewers/nicole-washington-do-mph","type":{"value":"medical_reviewer","label":"Medical Advisor"},"nid":"164742","specialties":[],"guestTitle":"","bio":{"text":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eDr. Nicole Washington is an \u003c/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.abms.org/board-certification/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eABMS board certified\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e psychiatrist and the chief medical officer of Elocin Psychiatric Services, a primarily virtual practice where she focuses on the mental health needs of the busy professional. Dr. Washington has spent most of her career caring and advocating for people who aren\u0026#8217;t typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities and high-performing professionals.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEducation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eOklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eUniversity of Illinois at Chicago, MPH\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eUniversity of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine, Psychiatric Residency\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCertifications\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAmerican Board of Psychiatry and Neurology \u0026#8211; Psychiatry\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProfessional Accomplishments\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAuthor of \u0026#8220;From Introspection to Action: The High-Level Professional’s 28 Day Journey to Improving Mental Health\u0026#8221;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003ePodcast host of \u0026#8220;The C-Suite Confidant”\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eCompleted an internship at Griffin Memorial Hospital\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAffiliations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.psychiatry.org/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAmerican Psychiatric Association (APA)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.blackpsychiatrists.org/about\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eBlack Psychiatrists of America (BPA)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.oklapsychiatry.org/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eOklahoma Psychiatric Physicians Association (OPPA)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.nmanet.org/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eNational Medical Association (NMA)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n"},"avatar":{"title":"","width":500,"height":500,"src":"https://post.psychcentral.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Nicole-Washington-500x500-Bio.png"},"bioBlurb":{"nodes":["Dr. Nicole Washington is an ABMS board certified psychiatrist and the chief medical officer of Elocin Psychiatric Services, a primarily virtual practice where…"]}}],"editors":[{"role":"Editor","name":{"display":"Christina Ward"}}],"pinterestImage":{"path":"https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2021/04/defocused-blurry-lights-dark-black-background-732x549-thumbnail.jpg"},"hideFeedback":false,"isMedicare":false,"isBlog":false,"publishSource":"wordpress","isAmpSupported":false,"categories":[{"name":"Uncategorized","slug":"uncategorized","link":"/uncategorized","children":[]},{"name":"lib","slug":"lib","link":"/lib","children":[]}],"language":{"en":"https://psychcentral.com/depression/an-overview-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect/","x-default":"https://psychcentral.com/depression/an-overview-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect/","current":"en"},"lang":"en","links":[],"colorScheme":"default","isContentSeries":false,"brandCTAs":[],"clusterNavLinks":[],"clusterUrls":[],"clusterLinks":{},"pathingTilesData":{},"pathingCardsData":{},"inArticlePathingCardsData":[],"quantitativeTrustData":{},"isPrependRecipeH2":false,"recipes":[],"hideTabs":false,"tabs":[{"id":"_noHeaderPrefixedContent","title":null,"header":null,"body":[{"tagName":"div","source":"\u003cp class=\"css-w2pt6r\"\u003eWhen medication and talk therapy don’t work to ease your depression, your doctor might recommend electroconvulsive therapy.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"tagName":"p","source":"Indifference, sadness, and irritability are part of living with depression. But when your symptoms don’t improve even with traditional therapies, you may wonder if you’ll ever find relief."},{"tagName":"div","attributes":{"data-preamp":"serena-chatbot"},"source":""},{"tagName":"p","source":"Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), or the therapeutic application of electrical currents to the brain, may sound intimidating, but it might be a helpful option for you."},{"tagName":"p","source":"The use of ECT is highly uncommon and considered only as a last resort."}]},{"id":"what-is-it","title":"What is it?","isCollapsable":false,"header":["What is electroconvulsive therapy?"],"body":[{"tagName":"p","source":"Electroconvulsive therapy is rarely used. "},{"tagName":"p","source":"An \u003ca href=\"https://journals.lww.com/ectjournal/Abstract/2016/12000/The_Prevalence_of_Electroconvulsive_Therapy_Use.6.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-150s69f\"\u003eanalysis\u003c/a\u003e of studies worldwide found that it was used to treat only approximately 0.02% of people with treatment-resistant depression – depression that has not improved with other treatments."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Due to this therapy’s quick results compared to medication and talk therapy, it may be a choice for you if you’re experiencing:"},{"tagName":"ul","source":"\u003cli\u003ehallucinations\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003edelusions\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003eextreme paranoia\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003esuicide ideation\u003c/li\u003e"},{"tagName":"p","source":"During ECT, an electric current is used to trigger a seizure in the brain. The session takes place under anesthesia, and muscle relaxants are administered to ensure you remain injury-free."},{"tagName":"p","source":"The entire session lasts 5-10 minutes."},{"tagName":"p","source":"In the 1930s, when this therapy was first developed, it was known as “electroshock therapy.” At the time, injuries were common, muscle relaxants weren’t available, and patients didn’t have the benefit of anesthesia."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Modern ECT is far safer, though it remains one of the most controversial treatment options in modern psychiatry."},{"tagName":"p","source":"There are two main types of ECT used, determined by where the electrodes are placed on the head."},{"tagName":"ul","source":"\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBilateral ECT.\u003c/strong\u003e Electrodes are placed on opposites sides of the head to affect the entire brain.\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnilateral ECT.\u003c/strong\u003e One electrode is placed on the top of the head and one on the temple for single-sided brain treatment.\u003c/li\u003e"},{"tagName":"p","source":"Your medical team may decide to try unilateral ECT first. This type of ECT is often just as effective as bilateral ECT but may have fewer memory-related side effects."}]},{"id":"how-it-works","title":"How it works","isCollapsable":false,"header":["How does it work?"],"body":[{"tagName":"p","source":"A brief pulse of electricity is sent through the brain, typically for 0.5 to 2.0 milliseconds (ms). Ultra-brief pulses of less than 0.5 ms are considered more tolerable and may be used to help minimize any potential memory loss."},{"tagName":"p","source":"This electrical pulse causes a seizure that lasts 15 to 70 seconds. During this time, your medical team monitors your body, which is under anesthesia."},{"tagName":"p","source":"When the seizure has concluded, your brain goes into a post-seizure quiet state, often considered a “reset.” This can result in a decrease in depression symptoms. "},{"tagName":"p","source":"The antidepressant effects of successful ECT have been known to last for years."}]},{"id":"when-its-used","title":"When it's used","isCollapsable":false,"header":["When is ECT used?"],"body":[{"tagName":"p","source":"If your symptoms of depression are not improving with medications and talk therapies, ECT becomes a possible option."},{"tagName":"p","source":"ECT can quickly improve your symptoms. It may be recommended if depression is causing you major impairment during your day-to-day activities or if you’re experiencing symptoms of psychosis."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Psychosis – when your brain loses the ability to identify reality – may cause hallucinations and delusions, both of which can pose safety concerns for you and those around you."},{"tagName":"p","source":"ECT is primarily used to treat major depression, but it may also be a part of treatment for:"},{"tagName":"ul","source":"\u003cli\u003eschizophrenia\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003eschizoaffective disorder\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003ecatatonia\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003eneuroleptic malignant syndrome\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003ebipolar disorder\u003c/li\u003e"},{"tagName":"p","source":"ECT is one of the few treatments for depression considered safe for pregnant women and older people because of minimal medication-related side effects."}]},{"id":"how-it-helps-depression","title":"How it helps depression","isCollapsable":false,"header":["How does it help depression?"],"body":[{"tagName":"p","source":"The exact reasons behind the effectiveness of ECT are not well understood. Overall, ECT is known to change blood flow and regional metabolism in the brain."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Within that process, many factors are linked. \u003chl-trusted-source source=\"PubMed Central\" rationale=\"Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6323557/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-150s69f\"\u003eResearch\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/hl-trusted-source\u003e supports a number of theories, including how this therapy may:"},{"tagName":"ul","source":"\u003cli\u003ereset the brain’s chemical messaging system for dopamine and serotonin\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003ecreate an anti-inflammatory response in the brain linked to cytokines\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003eincrease blood-brain barrier permeability\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003einfluence genetic expression\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003eimprove brain plasticity\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003eencourage the production of new neurons\u003c/li\u003e"},{"tagName":"p","source":"In 2017, research published in the journal \u003chl-trusted-source source=\"Nature\" rationale=\"Highly respected journal,Expert written journal,Peer reviewed journal\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.nature.com/articles/npp2017252\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-150s69f\"\u003eNeuropsychopharmacology\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/hl-trusted-source\u003e suggested ECT used for depression caused molecular changes in the brain. These changes allowed better communication between neurons in the same area of the brain responsive to antidepressants."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Several \u003chl-trusted-source source=\"PubMed Central\" rationale=\"Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4000084/#:~:text=Data%20from%20the%20National%20Institute,older%20received%20ECT%20%5B5%5D.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-150s69f\"\u003ecomparative trials\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/hl-trusted-source\u003e have established greater antidepressant effects with ECT than medication. "},{"tagName":"p","source":"ECT also has a higher remission rate: You’ll likely remain free of depression symptoms longer than if you were relying on only medication."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Even though the mechanisms behind why ECT works are not well understood, the therapy is considered highly effective. It is supported by the American Psychiatric Association, American Medical Association, and the National Institutes of Mental Health."}]},{"id":"what-happens","title":"What happens","isCollapsable":false,"header":["What happens during an ECT procedure?"],"body":[{"tagName":"p","source":"Before you undergo your first ECT session, you’ll need a medical exam and a psychiatric evaluation."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Once you’ve been approved for therapy, your doctor will speak with you about food and drink restrictions before ECT. Many anesthetic procedures require patients to limit or cease food intake due to side effects such as nausea and vomiting."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Certain medications may have to be stopped or decreased before the procedure if they can interfere with seizure induction."},{"tagName":"p","source":"When you arrive at the ECT location, your medical staff will administer muscle relaxants and place you under general anesthesia. "},{"tagName":"p","source":"All vital signs, including your blood oxygen saturation levels, will be monitored. Also, a bite block will be placed to protect your teeth and tongue."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Two electrodes will then be positioned on your scalp for bilateral or unilateral stimulation. An electric current will pass between the electrodes for up to 2 ms to induce a seizure response that lasts approximately a minute."},{"tagName":"p","source":"During the seizure, your reactions are closely monitored, with safety as the top priority. "},{"tagName":"p","source":"Within 5-10 minutes, your ECT treatment is over. You’ll then be taken to a quiet area to recover from the effects of anesthesia."},{"tagName":"p","source":"You’ll most likely be able to return home the same day as your ECT session."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Treatments typically occur 2-3 times a week for 6 to 12 treatments, according to the \u003ca href=\"https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ect\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-150s69f\"\u003eAmerican Psychiatric Association\u003c/a\u003e. Some people experience a notable improvement in as little as 3 weeks."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Once you know how ECT affects you, you and your doctor can develop an ECT maintenance schedule that allows you to benefit from ECT with as few follow-up sessions as possible."}]},{"id":"risks","title":"Risks","isCollapsable":false,"header":["What are the risks of ECT?"],"body":[{"tagName":"p","source":"As with most procedures, there are some potential \u003ca href=\"https://psychcentral.com/lib/risks-of-electroconvulsive-therapy-ect#3\" class=\"content-link css-150s69f\"\u003ecomplications from ECT\u003c/a\u003e. Before your ECT session, your doctor will explain general complications and any side effects related to your personal health and history that may occur."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Here are some common side effects of ECT."},{"tagName":"h3","source":"Memory loss"},{"tagName":"p","source":"After ECT, you may have difficulty remembering events leading up to the procedure. This is called retrograde amnesia and is common in ECT patients."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Memory loss may be more extreme for some people, lasting longer and affecting other memories. Almost everyone who receives ECT experiences some memory loss. Most people have an improvement in memory a few weeks post-treatment."},{"tagName":"p","source":"There’s no way to predict what level of memory loss you may experience. In some cases, memory loss is permanent."},{"tagName":"h3","source":"Concentration and attention problems"},{"tagName":"p","source":"Post ECT treatment, you may also have difficulty focusing or concentrating. This side effect often clears up a few weeks after your treatment session. Some people, though, may experience this long-term."},{"tagName":"h3","source":"General confusion"},{"tagName":"p","source":"Immediately after your ECT session, you may experience confusion. This resolves after a few hours for most people, but it can sometimes take days to go away. "},{"tagName":"p","source":"Confusion may make you question where you are, who is with you, or what you are doing."},{"tagName":"h3","source":"Physical reactions"},{"tagName":"p","source":"ECT may cause you some temporary physical reactions such as:"},{"tagName":"ul","source":"\u003cli\u003evomiting\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003enausea\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003eheadaches\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003emuscles aches and spasms \u003c/li\u003e"},{"tagName":"p","source":"These effects generally resolve within hours or days after therapy."},{"tagName":"h3","source":"Other potential complications"},{"tagName":"p","source":"ECT is not for everyone. Your doctor may \u003cem\u003enot\u003c/em\u003e recommend this therapy if you have:"},{"tagName":"ul","source":"\u003cli\u003esevere cardiovascular disease\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003ea space-occupying intracranial lesion with evidence of elevated intracranial pressure\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003ehistory of an acute cerebral hemorrhage or stroke\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003ean unstable vascular aneurysm\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003esevere lung disease\u003c/li\u003e"},{"tagName":"p","source":"You’ll also want to consider the possible complications of anesthesia before undergoing ECT."}]},{"id":"lets-recap","title":"Let's recap","isCollapsable":false,"header":["Let’s recap"],"body":[{"tagName":"p","source":"ECT is an effective therapy option for treatment-resistant depression and other select disorders. "},{"tagName":"p","source":"Compared to medication and talk therapy, ETC often provides faster results. It is considered safe for pregnant women and older patients."},{"tagName":"p","source":"Most people experience some form of memory loss after ECT. There is no way to predict how serious your memory loss will be."},{"tagName":"p","source":"If you feel current therapies are not improving depression symptoms, consider talking with your doctors about ECT. It’s not your fault medication and talk therapy have not made an impact on your symptoms."},{"widget":{"widgetFormat":"widget-call-out","items":[{"isBullets":true,"list":true,"headerTitle":["If you need immediate help:"],"content":[{"tagName":"p","attributes":{"className":"standout--body"},"source":"If you or a loved one are considering self-harm or suicide, you’re not alone. Help is available right now:"},{"tagName":"ul","attributes":{"id":"block-1784e10e-e659-4d49-8572-a954359c5f10"},"source":"\u003cli\u003eText or call 988, or chat \u003ca href=\"http://988lifeline.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-150s69f\"\u003e988lifeline.org\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003eText “HOME” to the \u003ca href=\"https://www.crisistextline.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsPDQrdXH5wIVBRx9Ch1YdQjIEAAYASAAEgJ_1_D_BwE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"content-link css-150s69f\"\u003eCrisis Text Line\u003c/a\u003e at 741741.\u003c/li\u003e"},{"tagName":"p","source":"If you or a loved one are experiencing psychosis or need immediate help, call emergency services at 911."}]}]},"brandPage":{}}]}],"hasAffiliateLinks":false,"affiliates":[],"propsFor":{"articleResources":[{"displayLink":"ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6323557/","link":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6323557/","title":{"tagName":"span","source":"Gazdag G, et al. (2019). Electroconvulsive therapy: 80 years old and still going strong."}},{"displayLink":"ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4000084/#:~:text=Data%20from%20the%20National%20Institute,older%20received%20ECT%20%5B5%5D","link":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4000084/#:~:text=Data%20from%20the%20National%20Institute,older%20received%20ECT%20%5B5%5D","title":{"tagName":"span","source":"Kerner N, et al. (2014). Current electroconvulsive therapy practice and research in the geriatric population.\u0026nbsp;"}},{"displayLink":"journals.lww.com/ectjournal/Abstract/2016/12000/The_Prevalence_of_Electroconvulsive_Therapy_Use.6.aspx","link":"https://journals.lww.com/ectjournal/Abstract/2016/12000/The_Prevalence_of_Electroconvulsive_Therapy_Use.6.aspx","title":{"tagName":"span","source":"Lesage A, et al. (2016). The prevalence of electroconvulsive therapy use since 1973: A meta-analysis."}},{"displayLink":"ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7044268/","link":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7044268/","title":{"tagName":"span","source":"Li M, et al. (2020). Effects of electroconvulsive therapy on depression and its potential mechanism."}},{"displayLink":"journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0230363","link":"https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0230363","title":{"tagName":"span","source":"Lye M, et al. (2020) Predictors of recurrence of major depressive disorder."}},{"displayLink":"nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml","link":"https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression.shtml","title":{"tagName":"span","source":"Major depression. (2019)."}},{"displayLink":"hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/specialty_areas/brain_stimulation/docs/depbulletin407_ect_extract.pdf","link":"https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/specialty_areas/brain_stimulation/docs/depbulletin407_ect_extract.pdf","title":{"tagName":"span","source":"Reti I. (n.d.). Electroconvulsive therapy today."}},{"displayLink":"psychiatry.org/patients-families/ect","link":"https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ect","title":{"tagName":"span","source":"What is electroconvulsive therapy? (2019)."}}],"byline":{"authors":[{"id":5038,"name":{"display":"Hope Gillette","first":"Hope","last":"Gillette"},"link":"/authors/hope-gillette","type":{"value":"author","label":"Author"},"nid":"","specialties":[],"guestTitle":"","bio":{"text":"\u003cp\u003eHope Gillette is a freelance writer and published novelist. She\u0026#8217;s passionate about providing accurate, empathetic mental health content for readers, and believes writing can help combat stigma and improve wellness outcomes. Hope’s early career focused on health disparities affecting marginalized groups, and she remains a firm advocate for health equity.\u003c/p\u003e\n"},"avatar":{"title":"","src":""}}],"medicalReviewers":[{"id":4990,"name":{"display":"Nicole Washington, DO, MPH","first":"Nicole","last":"Washington, DO, MPH"},"userLogin":"nwashington","links":{"website":"http://www.drnicolepsych.com","facebook":"www.facebook.com/drnicolepsych","linkedin":"www.linkedin/in/drnicolepsych","twitter":"www.twitter.com/drnicolepsych","instagram":"www.instagram.com/drnicolepsych","tiktok":"https://www.tiktok.com/@drnicolepsych"},"link":"/reviewers/nicole-washington-do-mph","type":{"value":"medical_reviewer","label":"Medical Advisor"},"nid":"164742","specialties":[],"guestTitle":"","bio":{"text":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eDr. Nicole Washington is an \u003c/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.abms.org/board-certification/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eABMS board certified\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e psychiatrist and the chief medical officer of Elocin Psychiatric Services, a primarily virtual practice where she focuses on the mental health needs of the busy professional. 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"],"link":"/depression/treatment-of-depression-with-rtms","imageAlt":"What Is Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?","thumbnail":"https://media.post.rvohealth.io/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/07/female-repetitive-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-732-549-feature-thumb-732x549.jpg","isNutrition":false,"authors":[{"id":4529,"name":{"display":"Traci Pedersen","first":"Traci","last":"Pedersen"},"userLogin":"tpedersen","links":{"website":"","facebook":"","linkedin":"","twitter":"","instagram":"","tiktok":""},"link":"/authors/traci-pedersen","type":{"value":"author","label":"Author"},"nid":"","specialties":[],"guestTitle":"","bio":{"text":"\u003cp\u003eTraci Pedersen is a freelance author with more than 15 years’ experience writing on themes of psychology, science, and alternative health for a variety of publications. 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