Is It True That Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Has Side Effects Such As Memory Loss And Brain Damage?

— -- Question: Is it true that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has side effects such as memory loss and brain damage?

Answer: Electroconvulsive therapy is a treatment for depression that has been around for many years. And despite people's fears about the treatment, it is in fact the safest and most effective treatment we have for severe depressions.

Occasionally people do experience temporary forgetfulness as a result of the treatment, and doctors will modify the treatment to deal with that side effect. Often it's short-term memory that's affected, and no study to my knowledge has ever shown that you can get permanent brain damage from this treatment if it's used safely.

Next: What Groups Of Medications May Be Effective For Treating Pediatric Depression?

Previous: Are There Any Medical Or Neurological Conditions That May Preclude The Use Of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?