how long do negative side effects from ECT last?

[kellyky]

how long do negative side effects from ECT last? its been 5 monthes n im experiencing exteme social anxiety which i never had before the ect n depression.

[tws1220]

It's my belief that depression sometimes is a defense mechanism that the brain uses to defend itself against anxiety. For instance I have had thoughts of death before while depressed but never a real thought of committing suicide except while experiencing severe anxiety. Are you in therapy? I think cognitive therapy will help and possibly some temporary drugs. I've been thinking of ECT myself. And now that you mention it I see where I might be anxious afterwards in social situations because I would be nervous I might not remember someone or something because of memory loss.
I am no way an authority on this. It's just my thoughts.

[caregiver222]

Electroconvulsive therapy.

It depends.

In  all cases there is some permanent neurological damage. After a single treatment there is a good chance of a relatively complete recovery. Generally, some memory is lost forever.

My personal opinion is that the practice should be banned and those who perform the treatment criminally prosecuted.