ECT

Has anyone on here had ECT (electroconvulsive therapy)? I had it about 14 months ago and I feel like I'll never be the same person I used to be. I haven't even talked to my therapist or psychiatrist about this because I just feel ... embarrassed, I guess. There is SO much I don't remember and I guess I never will. I was prepared for that but it seems to have altered my memory permanently. For instance my short term memory sucks now (as does my long term memory). I suppose there is nothing I can do about it but it is hard coming to terms with it. I also feel like my personality has changed. I no longer have anything to talk about ... ever. I get crazy social anxiety because I know that I don't have anything to talk about. It has even affected my job, in that I'm doing what I always wanted to do, and I hate it because it involves knowing what to say. Please tell me someone else has felt this way or can relate.

I had a friend who had ect...a lot of ect and she forgot a lot of things...so we took her down memory lane and did things to trigger her memories and they came back to her. things were challenging for her for several years but she was able to hold a demanding job teaching and is now very successful and pretty much all her mental health issues are gone. she had an amazing turn around. welcome to psych central. you will find we have several forums where you can post about your concerns and receive feedback from other members. you will get a lot of support here. again, welcome

Hello,

I had ECT and have suffered I from what you describe. I lost memories of my children growing up and am in pain. I can relate to what you're saying. I did find a new doctor and realized I wasn't "treatment resistant." I was one of the unlucky 20 percent (or higher as adversely effected patients seem to underreport) Your personality will come back, people tell me I'm the same. There is an "acceptance" piece somewhere in this experience..I haven't got there yet, but am working on it. I'm still aching for the lost memories. Feel free to PM me anytime.