What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) primarily used to treat?

What is Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) primarily used to treat?

• A. Mild anxiety disorders
• B. Severe, chronic depression
• C. Schizophrenia symptoms
• D. Personality disorders

Answer: (B)

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is primarily used to treat severe, chronic depression that has not responded to other forms of treatment, such as medication or psychotherapy. It is particularly effective for cases of major depressive disorder, especially when symptoms are severe and present a risk of suicide or when patients experience significant functional impairment. ECT can lead to rapid improvement in mood and has been a critical treatment option for individuals in acute depressive episodes. While ECT may have some indications for other mental health conditions, such as severe mania or catatonia associated with schizophrenia, its primary and most well-established use is for severe, treatment-resistant depression. Therefore, it is considered a valuable intervention for individuals who have not achieved relief through conventional therapeutic approaches.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is primarily used to treat severe, chronic depression that has not responded to other forms of treatment, such as medication or psychotherapy. It is particularly effective for cases of major depressive disorder, especially when symptoms are severe and present a risk of suicide or when patients experience significant functional impairment. ECT can lead to rapid improvement in mood and has been a critical treatment option for individuals in acute depressive episodes.

While ECT may have some indications for other mental health conditions, such as severe mania or catatonia associated with schizophrenia, its primary and most well-established use is for severe, treatment-resistant depression. Therefore, it is considered a valuable intervention for individuals who have not achieved relief through conventional therapeutic approaches.