Does ECT or rTMS help Bipolar Depression?

I just spent the most horrible 72 hours in a very awful hospital filled with unprofessional RNs and Mental Health Workers. I was admitted by the ER as voluntary, and they snuck a 5150 on me, based on lie by an RN when I went up to the psych unit. It was utter hell. I spent the entire time lying on a bed, sometimes crying, sometimes sleeping, and not eating any meals.

I got out this afternoon, and I really don't feel much better than when I went to the ER. I know I will NEVER go to that hospital again. I am filing a formal grievance.

Now, with almost the same feelings that sent me to the ER, I am faced with going to another hospital, or seeking a different type of treatment. I just started to see a brand new psychiatrist. (Who is now on vacation!) She suggested to me the last time I saw her: Hospital, ECT or rTMS. I have been on many different meds and none seem to work for me. I am so bad at trying coping skills because my memory is bad, and I forget what to do.

Can Bipolar 1 Depression really be helped by either ECT or rTMS? I would choose the TMS over ECT, but it all depends on what my insurance will cover, and the doctor that they cover.

I want to go to my next Pdoc appointment with some solid info to make a really informed decision.

My understanding is that bipolar depression can at least be helped by ECT. I have bipolar depression right now, and my psychiatrist has recommended it. I have heard of people really being helped by it. Good luck, whatever you choose!

Hello Sad&Bipolar,

Have you had any psychotherapy? And is your psychiatrist aware that the medication you are on is not working for you? This new psychiatrist may be able to come up with different options and certainly mention that you are interested in other treatments.

Some people report good results from ECT but I personally am not a fan of it. I know some people who (although their depression was better for a while have had lasting memory loss) as a result of the treatment of ECT.

Here is a thread where someone was asking a similar question and you'll see that it does help some people http://forums.psychcentral.com/other...e-therapy.html

Here is a link all about ECT An Overview of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) | Psych Central

I don't know much about rTMS but here is a link about that Treatment of Depression With rTMS | Psych Central

My understanding is that both can be helpful for bipolar depression. I've had ECT but not rTMS as it is hugely expensive, time consuming, and not covered by my insurance. ECT was helpful and I had little memory loss. Understand it is a temporary treatment, not a cure, and there are risks that must be considered.

I've been dealing with bi-polar 1 for the last 20 years of my life. I have had 4 major bi-polar depressive states. This last one was a tough one-nothing was breaking it- I did the research- after numerous failed attempts with various medicines ECT was one of the last options. 17 treatments later I popped out of my depression almost felt like a light switch. There is a concern about memory and is the reason I don't go in monthly for "maintenance" treatments. the Memory lost was beginning to outweigh the results of the treatment, fortunately I got the results I was looking for in the nick of time. Since that time most of my memory has returned.

Its important to remember that everyone is different and you got to keep moving and trying everything to improve your quality of life. I think you made another post regarding Latuda. There is a black label warning about suicidal tendency on latuda- I had them- plus a bunch more of negative-This drug was simply awful for me but others have had great progress- You have to go talk to your doctor about these side effects. Good Luck! you can do it.