Hi bblb,

I thought I'd post and present a different perspective. I also have ongoing trouble with depression. I tried quite a number of anti-depressants, even multiple medications at the same time, without success. I was hospitalized for depression, and the doctors strongly suggested ECT. I ultimately agreed.

I am sorry to say that unfortunately, ECT did not help me. I know that it does help some people, but I was not one of them. It also left me with permanent cognitive damage, which apparently is fairly common. This is one of the things I regret the most about the whole episode, because prior to the ECT treatments, my cognitive functions were quite good. I miss having a brain that works as well as it used to! I would never recommend ECT to anyone, ever, because of that.

For me, the best treatment for depression has been talking therapy. It hasn't made it go away, but I have had the most improvement that way, and there are no side effects! It seems to be the best thing I can do for myself, although each person is different and it may not be the right decision for everyone.

Take care,
ErinBear