Actually, the modern process is a LOT better. My aunt had it, and my mom nearly did as well. (They discovered it was a physical problem, thus different treatments) Anyway, yeah. And my roomate in the hospital was having it as well. Really, the niggest thing to worry about with ECT is memory loss. I’m talking like possibly AMNESIA memory loss. But if it keeps you from killing yourself, it’s worth the risk IMO
Just chiming in here to say that it is NOT a ‘horrific and nightmarish experience.’ It WAS, back in the dark ages of psychiatric medicine, sure, but not today it isn’t. Today you get a mild sedative, lay back in a bed, and have a quick burst of current delivered. It is neither painful, nor particularly remembered at all afterwards. The only significant side effect is potential memory loss.
….. Woops.
Shock therapy?!
Jeez, I didn’t think they still used that barbaric nonsense…
They call it “ECT” now. Electro-Convulsive Therapy. It’s a more clinical sounding name for a horrific and nightmarish experience.
Actually, the modern process is a LOT better. My aunt had it, and my mom nearly did as well. (They discovered it was a physical problem, thus different treatments) Anyway, yeah. And my roomate in the hospital was having it as well. Really, the niggest thing to worry about with ECT is memory loss. I’m talking like possibly AMNESIA memory loss. But if it keeps you from killing yourself, it’s worth the risk IMO
From what I understand, it is a very good treatment for depression and other severe mental disorders. There was a TED talk by a guy that had it.
And they did it by stuffing a towel in your mouth and sending 5000 volts of electricity running through your body. No thanks.
Just chiming in here to say that it is NOT a ‘horrific and nightmarish experience.’ It WAS, back in the dark ages of psychiatric medicine, sure, but not today it isn’t. Today you get a mild sedative, lay back in a bed, and have a quick burst of current delivered. It is neither painful, nor particularly remembered at all afterwards. The only significant side effect is potential memory loss.