Electroconvulsive Therapy
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an effective psychiatric treatment in which seizures are electrically induced in anesthetized patients in order to achieve therapeutic benefits. ECT is most often recommended for use as a treatment for patients who are severely depressed, suicidal or have bipolar disorder with depression or mania.
The decision to use ECT as a treatment typically comes
after discussion and exploration of other
therapies. In order to inform discussion and decision
making, the BC Ministry of Health has funded the
creation of a 20-minute video guide for patients and
families.
