I don't know... ECT would definately scare me. I also fear losing my job - already had to take a sick leave for 2 months because of depression - another one would be a disaster. I don't know what scares me about psych hospitals, I guess the stigma attached... Padded cells do sound scary too!! I'm in Canada so there aren't private hospitals... So staff aren't condescending? I guess even other psych patients scare me... I don't know... I guess one always fears the unknown. My family's reaction would also scare me - although by now they realize how far I have sunk...