Electroconvulsive therapy is a procedure in which electrical currents are passed through the brain to trigger a seizure. Although researchers don't fully understand just how ECT works, it's thought that the seizure causes changes in the brain chemistry. Given in a series over several weeks, ECT can help alleviate the symptoms of certain mental illnesses.
ECT is most commonly recommended for these conditions:
- Severe depression, with psychosis, suicidal intent or refusal to eat
- Mania, in cases where there hasn't been a good response to medications
- Schizophrenia, when symptoms are severe or medications aren't sufficient
To find out more about ECT from the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research click here
