Posted by Ruth on August 31, 1999, at 21:12:47
In reply to ECT?, posted by Toby on August 28, 1999, at 22:19:15
I had two series of ECT a year apart. I had it because of the seriousness of my depression and the fact that I had failed multiple medication trials (a to z +). IT is hard to have perspective on it. My experience is somewhat similar to what was described. It was effective, then I relapsed and my response the second time was not as significant and so they went to bi-lateral treatments which left me with significant cognitive impairment in the areas of long term memory and retaining new info.
The treatments themselvesl were not a problem, but the aftermath has been. My doctor believes that the memory loss should improve and that it may not be a consequence of the ECT but of the depression itself, perhaps in almost a post traumatic stress sense. He also feels that given the depth of the depression there was little choice.
I guess my feeling at this point is that I would recommend you try meds from a to z and back again before trying ECT. I would want to get a consult from a psychopharmacologist ideally whose expertise is specifically in treatment resistent depression. If not at least someone who is current (I'd try someone in or affiliated with a med school if you have one near you)
Let me know if you have more questions.Dows anyone have experience with ECT? I am going through meds from a to z, and just want to chart the options...
poster:Ruth
thread:10764
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990829/msgs/10855.html