Electroconvulsive Therapy

Electroconvulsive therapy is a form of treatment given to patients who are clinically depressed and have failed to respond to any other form of treatment. According to the electroconvulsive therapy definition, the treatment involves the placement of electrodes on the patient’s scalp through which a controlled form of electric current is passed. Though this electroconvulsive therapy definition may instil fear in the minds of most uninformed individuals, this form of treatment is highly effective and involves minimal risks. This form of treatment like psychodynamic therapy is one of the most widely misunderstood ones around. Most risks and side effects arise from improper use of the equipment which has given rise to a lot of fear on the subject. Again, most believe that electroconvulsive therapy effects act as a quick fix while this is not the case. Improper media coverage and inaccurate news reporting has led to most of these misconceptions.

Electroconvulsive Therapy Information

What many an electroconvulsive therapy definition will fail to mention is that this treatment is carried out in the presence of anesthesia making it much easier on the patient. This method is not as invasive and has shown great results like yoga benefits has in patients suffering from the worst forms of clinical depression. Once the electrodes are attached to the individual’s scalp and he/she is put under the influence of anesthesia, the mild current passed through the electrodes subjects a part of the brain to a seizure. Since the individual is under the influence of a muscle relaxant, the visible electroconvulsive therapy effects are limited to slight movements of the patient’s hand and feet. Patients are constantly monitored through the course of this treatment. Once the patient awakens from the treatment, there is very little or no recollection of the treatment. This disorientation usually lasts only for a few minutes.

Effects and Benefits of Electroconvulsive Therapy

Electroconvulsive therapy effects and benefits are rather subjective in the sense that they have differing effects depending on the individual’s mental condition, past and response to the therapy. Electroconvulsive therapy benefits can be used in the following areas:

– If a patient needs a rapid treatment response (Ex: Pregnancy)

– When a patient stops food intake and suffers from severe deficiencies due to continuing depression

– If antidepressant therapy has no effect on the patient

– If antidepressant therapy and medication is not possible due to the presence of other ailments

– If a patient suffers from catatonia

– If psychotic features occur along with depression

– If the patient suffers from a bipolar condition (manic-depression)

– If the patient is at a severe risk of suicide or has already committed an attempt
Electroconvulsive therapy has a lot of advantages as it deals with the problem in an organic manner. However, in order to make the most of electroconvulsive therapy benefits, one must ensure that a well-qualified and trusted professional is on the job.

Again, the right use of up-to-date equipment is a must to reap electroconvulsive therapy benefits. This form of therapy is not a quick fix, but it certainly is one of the most effective forms of treatment for depression.