What Is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) has been a widely recognized treatment for nearly a century, offering a safe and effective option for various mental health conditions. It has been successfully used to treat depression, suicidality, mania, psychosis, and catatonia, among other disorders.
Over the years, advancements in ECT technology have significantly improved its safety and effectiveness. Innovations in electrode placement, anesthesia, and medical monitoring have enhanced the overall experience, making the treatment more tolerable while increasing its efficacy.
- ECT is remarkably safe - statistically, 10 times safer than childbirth
What Does an ECT Appointment Look Like?
ECT involves the controlled application of an electrical stimulus to the brain via two electrodes placed on the scalp. This induces a brief seizure, lasting approximately one minute, which is believed to serve as a “reset” for the brain’s chemical and electrical systems. This reset may provide substantial relief for individuals struggling with severe mental health conditions.
Since patients are under anesthesia throughout the procedure, they do not experience pain or discomfort and will have no recollection of the treatment upon waking. The entire process, including check-in and discharge, typically takes about an hour, while the actual ECT procedure lasts less than 5 to 10 minutes.
When Should You Consider ECT as a Treatment Option?
While advancements in psychiatric medications continue to improve treatment options for conditions such as depression, suicidality, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and catatonia, some individuals do not respond to medication alone.
At Phoenix Mental Health, we support these medical breakthroughs but recognize that not every patient benefits from traditional pharmacological treatments. ECT is an option for those whose symptoms persist despite medication therapy.
What kind of monitoring will take place during the procedure?
Each ECT session is conducted under strict medical supervision. Patients are closely monitored before, during, and after the procedure by a psychiatrist, an anesthesiologist, and our skilled nursing staff.
Monitoring includes:
- Vital signs: Blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels.
- Heart activity: An EKG machine tracks cardiac rhythm.
- Brain function: EEG monitoring ensures a seizure occurs and determines its duration.
- Additional assessments: Physical exams, memory tests, and mood evaluations may be conducted as needed.
What Medications Are Administered During ECT?
Before treatment begins, an intravenous (IV) line will be placed to administer necessary medications. These medications help minimize saliva production, regulate heart rhythms, relax muscles, and induce sleep for a pain-free experience.
For those interested in a deeper understanding of these medications, their functions, and potential side effects, our anesthesia provider is available to discuss them in detail before the procedure.
How Many ECT Sessuibs Are Needed?
The number of ECT treatments required varies from patient to patient and cannot be predetermined. You will have ongoing discussions with your Phoenix Mental Health psychiatrist to assess progress and determine the necessity of additional treatments.
A typical course of ECT consists of 6 to 12 sessions, administered two to three times per week in the initial phase. The total number of treatments will depend on your condition, your response to ECT, the effectiveness of any concurrent medications, and your doctor’s professional recommendation.
Is ECT safe?
Yes, ECT is considered a safe treatment. In fact, it is statistically ten times safer than childbirth. However, as with any medical intervention, there are potential risks.
At Phoenix Mental Health, we take informed consent seriously. Before beginning treatment, we schedule a thorough consultation with one of our psychiatrists to review the benefits, risks, and potential side effects of ECT. This ensures that you and your loved ones have all the necessary information to make an informed decision about whether this treatment is right for you.
