Posted by Jumpy on January 9, 2003, at 15:25:05
In reply to Re: This is a sucky lifetime for me., posted by kara lynne on January 9, 2003, at 13:34:53
Hey Kara,
I truly believe there is a definate point in someone life when ECT should be considered. ECT definately cause retrograde amnesia ... the loss of memory of events surrounding the period of ECT and the few months before and after. For very few, some lose several years of memory. There is also anterograde amnesia ... basically forgetfulness or difficulties with concentration ... this is suppose to only last 4 to 6 weeks. Studies by Sackeim show *NO* learning difficulties and actually improved cognition at 6 months after ECT. But once again, a handful of patients will report persisting learning impairment.
I agree with the above poster that ECT improvement feels "clean" in a way. Like all the heaviness is lifted and what is left is just your motivated, calm, friendly old self. But you also still have that terrible cognitive impairment too!
So, I think you should get ECT if your obsessively suicidal or psychotically depressed/manic that is refractory to meds or in a catatonic depression. Aside from that, only after you have failed multiple drug trials with combos (including TCAs and lithium augmentation) should you consider ECT. And remember, ECT in general is just temporary .... not a permenant solution. Most patients relapse after ECT and fairly quickly if not medicated soon after.
Wish you the best of luck
Jumpy
poster:Jumpy
thread:135024
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030106/msgs/135121.html