ECT is a treatment for a small number of severe mental illnesses... ECT consists of passing an electrical current through the brain to produce an epileptic fit – hence the name, electro-convulsive. On the face of it, this sounds bizarre. Why should anyone ever have thought that this was a sensible way to treat a mental disorder? The idea developed from the observation that, in the days before there was any kind of effective medication, some people with depression or schizophrenia, and who also had epilepsy, seemed to feel better after having a fit. Research suggests that the effect is due to the fit rather than the electrical current. Have you or someone you know had this treatment? How did it feel? Did anything positive come from it?
I have not known within my circle of influence who got into ECT but I have read on the net about this treatment. Indeed, it can sound a little bizarre and even absurd. However, if this can help to lessen the problem, then it is good to explore the option.
