Abstract
BackgroundElectroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most controversial treatments in psychiatry. This controversy and diverse and often strongly held opinions can make decision making processes around ECT more complex.MethodThis consumer-led project explored the experiences of individuals who had received ECT in terms of the information they received, their experience of ECT and suggestions for ways that decision making processes and experiences of ECT can be improved. Interviews were conducted by consumer researchers who had also received ECT and transcripts were analysed using constant comparative techniques.ResultsSeventeen individuals participated. Four overarching categories were identified from participant interviews: Information matters; Preparation and decisions before ECT; Experience of ECT; and Suggestions for improvement. Most participants suggested that more information was required and that this information should be made available more regularly to support decision making. Additional suggestions included greater involvement of family and friends (including having a family member or friend present during the ECT procedure), opportunities to gain information from individuals who had received ECT and more support for managing memory and cognitive side effects.ConclusionThis study provides valuable consumer-provided insights and recommendations for psychiatrists and mental health clinicians working within ECT clinics and with consumers considering or preparing for ECT.
Highlights
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most controversial treatments in psychiatry
This study provides valuable consumer-provided insights and recommendations for psychiatrists and mental health clinicians working within ECT clinics and with consumers considering or preparing for ECT
Others conclude that there is no evidence-based research that demonstrates ECT is better than a placebo (where anaesthetic is given to the patient, Wells et al BMC Psychiatry (2018) 18:236 but no electric current is applied) beyond the treatment period [8]
Summary
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most controversial treatments in psychiatry. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is arguably the most controversial treatment in modern psychiatry [1, 2]. Advocates argue that it is a safe and lifesaving intervention. Opponents suggest it is ineffective [3] and some go so far as to suggest that ECT is “a crime against humanity”, calling for it to be banned Some suggest that ECT is effective in up to 85% of individuals with severe depression [5]. Further criticisms are that there have been no placebo-controlled studies of ECT since 1985 [9] and the claims that ECT prevents suicide cannot be substantiated [9]
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