Electroconvulsive therapy is a medical treatment for severe mental illness in which a brief, controlled electrical current is passed through the brain while the patient is asleep under anaesthesia and given a muscle relaxant. This causes a short, controlled seizure, and the patient does not feel it.

ECT is available at Apex for illnesses such as severe depression, certain psychotic and manic conditions and catatonia, usually when medicines have not worked well or when quick improvement is important. It is given two to three times a week for several sessions and is not used in children. A psychiatrist in Mulund or at the nearest Apex unit can discuss whether ECT is suitable.

How the Procedure Can Help

ECT can bring rapid and significant improvement in severe illness and is one of the most effective treatments for severe depression. It can be life-changing for patients who are not eating, not sleeping or at serious risk.

Risks and Considerations

Short-term confusion, headache, nausea and muscle aches are common after a session. Memory problems, usually for events around the treatment period, can occur, and we discuss them carefully beforehand. Anaesthesia carries its own small risks, which the anaesthetist reviews. Treatment is given only after informed consent and a full medical check-up, and benefits may need maintenance treatment.