So, I’ve been depressed for 16 years. I’ve been treated for it for 5. I’m frustrated with feeling this way. Medicine hasn’t helped and I want to try something else. ECT worked for my mom and I wonder if it’ll work for me too. However I’m concerned that I won’t be able to afford it and/or I’ll miss too much work. Any solutions?
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I do know they offer it at the hospital that I’m currently going to.
I think you may have to talk to the doctor about all the failed medicines and such. Are you near a big teaching hospital in a large city?
Comment deleted. My bad. No bad intentions meant.
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ECT can be a great therapy, with lasting benefits (people only needing to come in for “top ups” a couple of times a year), but the safest way is to go low and slow.
Having lots of sessions at higher voltages can quickly rescue a person who is severely drepressed, but the trade off is significant memory loss. Going low and slow won’t give results as quickly, but memory will be preserved.
Magnetic therapy is another option, doesn’t need an anaesthetic so less down time, but it may not be covered by NHI (or you may have to “fail” other therapies first). Seeing a specialist at a university hospital is definitely the first and best step.
Good luck OP, you deserve to feel better and live your life. I hope you find a treatment that works for you.
Maybe could sound stupid but, have you tried psicotherapy before trying the ect?