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Electro-Convulsive Treatment, it is when seizures are induced by electric shocks to treat mental health illnesses such as Bipolar, severe depression that does not respond to medication, and early stages of Parkinson's.

In the modern version, the patient is given drugs to cause sleep and immobilize the voluntary muscles (so they won't flail about and injure themselves) before the shocks are applied to the brain thru the skull.

Before effective psychiatric medications were available this (and Insulin Shock Treatment, which produces the same effects but by giving a deliberate insulin overdose) were widely used to treat anything and everything as well as being used as punishment when patients made trouble. Patients were awake and restrained with leather straps, often broken bones and other injuries resulted. The treatment acquired a very bad reputation.

However when properly applied in the limited range of situations where it is appropriate it is very effective. Its most common side effect is limited memory loss.

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11y ago

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Related Questions

Who is unilateral ECT good for?

Unilateral ECT is preferred for individuals who experience prolonged confusion or forgetfulness following treatment


When is ECT used on depressed people?

ECT, or electroconvulsive therapy, usually is employed after all therapy and pharmaceutical treatment options have been explored.


Is there a electro stimulation treatment for drug addiction?

yes (ECT) however its rare and costly


Does ECT work?

ECT often produces dramatic improvement in the signs and symptoms of major depression, especially in elderly individuals, sometimes during the first week of treatment.


What is maintenance ECT?

A return to the hospital every one-two months, as needed, for an additional treatment


Can ect effect essential tremors?

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may have an impact on essential tremors, though the evidence is limited and mixed. Some studies suggest that ECT can lead to improvements in tremor severity for certain patients, particularly those with comorbid psychiatric conditions. However, the response can vary widely among individuals, and ECT is not a standard treatment for essential tremors. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for personalized treatment options.


Is there any treatment for depression?

yes, the preferred and highly effective treatment is antidepressant drugs. If none of them is found to work and the depression continues to worsen than ECT is reliable.


When is electroconvulsive therapy used?

When depression fails to respond to treatment or when there is a high risk of suicide, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) sometimes is used.


What are the side effects of treatment by electric shocks for depression?

Common side effects of treatment with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for depression may include temporary memory loss, confusion, headache, muscle aches, and nausea. However, these side effects are usually short-term and tend to improve as treatment progresses. It is important to discuss any concerns or potential risks with your healthcare provider before undergoing ECT.


Is shock treatment still performed in psychiatric treatments?

Shock treatment or Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is stilled used as a treatment for Bipolar disorder and other psychiatric conditions. It is not as widely used as it was in the past and it often used after other more traditional methods of therapy and medication are not successful.


What does ECT mean?

ECT is Electroconvulsive therapy. Also known as electroshock, it is a type of psychiatric treatment in which seizures are electronically induced in patients who have been anesthetized. It is often used for patients experiencing severe depression. For more information, see the Related Link.


How often did John Nash get electric shock therapy?

John Nash underwent electric shock therapy, also known as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), multiple times throughout his life as part of his treatment for schizophrenia. Reports indicate that he received ECT around 30 times during the 1950s and 1960s. While it was intended to help alleviate his symptoms, Nash also faced significant side effects from the treatment.