I've had ECT three times. Each time I was so depressed I could barely eat or take care of myself. I was suffering from intense suicidal ideation, and if I had had the energy I would have done it (one time I actually attempted). Each time I had already tried every medication available; it was ECT or continue living in hell.

ECT has helped me tremendously. The first time I had it I was actually stable (for the most part) for six years afterward. Medication free. The second time my stability only lasted a year and a half but my husband died in that time so that probably had a lot to do with the depression. This past February I did it for a third time and again, it pulled me out of the black hole I was in. I've been stable for four months. I'm on medication this time so that's probably helping too but I am hopeful for my future.

I did experience extreme memory loss and loss of cognitive function the first two times. It is a shame because I have no memory of important event such as my honeymoon and a nice vacation we took. This last time, however, I experienced no adverse effects.

The only problem I have is I really don't like being put under to get it. It's terrifying to me and even though I've done it fifty times I still get panicky when it's time to do it. Therefore I will still avoid it as much as possible. However I am not averse to doing it again in the future if it is my only option again.