Electroconvulsive therapy facts for kids

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), sometimes called electroshock, is a special medical treatment for the brain. It helps people who are struggling with certain mental health conditions. During ECT, a very small, controlled electric pulse is sent through the brain of a patient who is asleep. This causes a brief, controlled burst of brain activity, similar to a seizure.

Before the treatment, patients are given medicine to make them fall asleep (like during surgery). This is called anesthesia. They also get medicine to relax their muscles. This makes the treatment safe and comfortable. Small pads called electrodes are placed on the patient's head. These pads deliver the gentle electric pulse, which lasts for about half a second.

What is ECT Used For?

ECT is mainly used to help people with severe depression. Depression is a mental health condition where a person feels very sad, hopeless, and loses interest in activities for a long time. It can make everyday life very difficult.

When is ECT an Option?

Doctors usually suggest ECT only when other treatments have not worked well enough. For example, if someone has tried different antidepressant medicines and talking therapies, but they are still very unwell, ECT might be considered. It can be a helpful option for people who need quick relief from severe symptoms.

How Has ECT Changed?

ECT has been around for many years, but it has changed a lot over time. In the past, it was done differently and sometimes caused more side effects. Today, ECT is much safer and more controlled.

Modern ECT uses lower doses of electricity and is always given while the patient is under anesthesia. This means the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort during the treatment. The medicines also help prevent the body from moving during the brief brain activity.

Images for kids

• 

  An ECT device made by Siemens, used in a hospital in Norway from the 1960s to the 1980s.

• 

  An ECT machine from before 1960.

• 

  A Bergonic chair, used for general electric treatment for psychological effect during World War I.

See also

In Spanish: Terapia electroconvulsiva para niños