What is electroconvulsive therapy?

Resetting brain: Ect is a controlled therapy in which electrical shocks are introduced into both temples to "reset' the brain. A brief seizure is induced to reset the brain. The hope is that the neurotransmitters in the brain will be released in the right ratios to "fix" depression.

Treats depression: Ect treats depression - about 60% of those who receive treatment are not depressed at the end of treatment. During the procedure, patient's are put to sleep and paralyzed for about 5 minutes. During this time, an electrical signal causes a seizure which lasts from 20 sec to 2 min. Upon waking, there is some disorientation lasting up to 15 to 30min. Memory loss depends on electrode placement.