depression

[deb398]

Hello everyone, this is a very hard question for me to ask anyone but I am desperate!  Does anyone know if ECT or magnetic treatment really helps a person with severe depression? I have taken every type of anti depressant out there and either they do not help my depression or I cannot tolerate the side effects. Right now I am not taking anything except for something for my anxiety and I need something that will help my depression.  I am desperate to find something that will help my depression.  I live in Lou, Ky. so if anyone knows of a Dr. that treatments adults with either (if they do work) the ect, or magnetic treatment PLEASE let me know ASAP!     Thanks soo much Deb.

[deb398]

Thank you Anneinside, I am just about at the end of my rope. I am so depressed and alone that I am beginning to think it would be better if I just left this earth! I really and truly do not want to leave my 2 cats, but the pain is almost to much to take! I hope and pray that I can find a dr, who can help me!!  Deb

[mammo]

They have made great strides with the ECT, and I think it is well worth you considering.

[Anneinside]

I don't know about magnetic treatment as it isn't common yet. However, I have had ECT and have maintenance ECT every 4 weeks. ECT helps 80% of the people who have it,  where only 30% of people respond positively to an antidepressant which explains why we end up trying so many to find the one that works.

I have been having ECT since the end of June. I also, several years ago, had maintenance ECT for 18 months and after that I had 9 months with zero symptoms. The only real side effect is memory loss. Some people have little while other have more. I am very lucky and have minimal memory loss and can usually recall events/things when reminded.

When you start ECT you usually have it 3 times a week for 2 to 3 weeks. Most people stop ECT then. Other people, like me, continue with maintenance of once a week, then every other week, every 3 weeks and finally monthly. I have one more treatment scheduled before I see my pdoc again to talk about whether to continue. I know there are people who have strong feelings against ECT but I have found it to be very helpful. I am actually more worried that my pdoc will want to stop it than continuing. As long as I continue with monthly ECT my depressive symptoms remain low to none. Oh, ECT also works on mania.

If you have any questions about ECT I would be glad to respond.