Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a treatment where small electric currents are passed through the brain, intentionally triggering a brief seizure. ECT is most commonly used to treat severe depression that has not responded to other treatment. While the exact way it works is unclear, ECT can provide relief for patients when medications have failed or cannot be used. Risks include side effects like confusion and memory loss after treatment. ECT is considered relatively low-risk when properly administered by a qualified medical professional, and is often effective for reducing depressive symptoms.
