Are you afraid of ECT treatment? Let's talk about it honestly (Electroconvulsive Therapy)

You may have seen someone in a movie or TV series, held tightly to a bed, writhing and writhing when an electric shock is applied. You may have been very scared of ECT treatment after seeing it. But in reality, ECT treatment, which is performed in hospitals today under very safe and medical supervision, has nothing to do with the horrific scenes shown in those movies. So, let's clear up some misconceptions about this and find out exactly what ECT really is, who it is given to, and how it is done.

What is ECT simply?

ECT is short for Electroconvulsive Therapy . Simply put, it is a highly effective medical treatment used to treat certain mental health conditions, especially those that do not respond well to medication.

This involves putting you under general anesthesia and giving your brain a very small, controlled electrical signal so that you don't feel anything. This causes a brief, controlled seizure in the brain. You are in a deep sleep during this entire procedure, so you don't feel any pain or discomfort.

Scientists are still researching exactly how this works to heal the brain. But one major theory is that the treatment helps brain cells grow and form new connections (neurogenesis). This is believed to be able to reverse the negative changes in the brain caused by illnesses like major depression.

For what conditions is this treatment usually recommended?

ECT is not a treatment for everyone. Doctors only recommend it for a few specific , severe conditions.

Who is suitable for ECT treatment?

A psychiatrist will determine if this treatment is appropriate for you or your loved one. Typically, the following are qualified:

• Those who are not responding to medication: If they have tried several types of antidepressants or other medications for mental illness but have not been able to find relief.
• Those at risk of harming themselves or others: If you have severe suicidal thoughts, this can be used for quick results.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers: Some medications can be harmful to the baby during pregnancy. In such cases, ECT treatment under medical supervision may be a safe option.
• People who are unable to perform daily activities due to symptoms: Those who are completely refusing to eat or drink, and are so sick that they cannot even do basic things like washing themselves.

Things to be aware of before and after treatment

Preparation before treatment

Your doctor will give you the advice you need, which may include:

• Do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before the treatment.
• If you have medication to take in the morning, only take it with a sip of water if your doctor allows it.
• If you use dentures, bring a case to keep them in.
• Remove jewelry such as earrings, rings, and facial piercings if you have any.

Things to do for safety after treatment

You will gradually wake up about 5 minutes after the treatment. It is normal to feel a little sleepy or drowsy at first. This will subside in about 20-30 minutes. You will be monitored for about 30-45 minutes before you go home.

What are the side effects and benefits?

Like any medical treatment, ECT has both minor side effects and benefits.

Main advantages of ECT treatment

• Quick results: Because it provides results faster than other treatments, it can help save lives in emergency situations (e.g., severe risk of suicide).
• High success rate: ECT can achieve very good results even where other treatments have failed.
• Safety:It can be safely done during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, and even for the elderly under strict medical supervision.

When to call the doctor

If you experience the following symptoms after treatment, inform your doctor immediately or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

• Heartbeat that is too fast or irregular.
• Having a very severe headache.
• Having some problem or fear about your mental state.
• Having thoughts of harming yourself or others (this is an emergency) .