What is Electroconvulsive Therapy?

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a treatment option for adults, ages 18 and older, who suffer from severe episodes of major depression, persistent suicidal ideation, mania, and some types of schizophrenia. It has been proven to be a life-saving adjunct to medication and psychotherapy. ECT is also particularly excellent at improving psychosis and has been determined to be a true mood stabilizer in medicine.

The procedure is administered at our facility under the supervision of a psychiatrist, anesthesiologist, and an ECT nursing team. ECT is a tested treatment for clients suffering from Depression, Bipolar disorder, or Schizophrenia.

In recent years, medicine has vastly improved the diagnosis and treatment options available for those suffering from mental illness. New therapies and medications have helped countless people recover from debilitating psychiatric problems that were previously thought untreatable. Despite these advances, not everyone experiences the same success. Electroconvulsive Therapy is an option for patients who have not responded to traditional therapies and medication.

 

Is ECT Effective?

Electroconvulsive Therapy has been proven to be a useful treatment method with more than half of severely treatment-resistant patients achieving remission, according to the National Institutes of Health. Still, there is no guarantee that ECT will be effective. Your doctor will discuss with you why ECT is being recommended and what alternative treatments may be available.

Is ECT Safe?

Prior to Electroconvulsive Therapy, patients will undergo a physical and psychiatric evaluation to ensure that the treatments can be administered in the most effective manner. Medications may be adjusted to minimize risk and maximize effectiveness. However, all treatments have risks and side effects. The most common side effects of ECT include muscle aches, nausea, short-term memory loss and headaches.

Am I Eligible for ECT?

There are risks associated with any treatment procedure and individual results may vary. Please consult the dedicated professionals within the ECT program at Centennial Peaks Hospital to assess if you are a candidate for ECT therapy. Our Medical Staff will also consult with you on the risks and benefits of ECT treatment if you are a suitable candidate.

How Does ECT Work?

At Centennial Peaks Hospital, Electroconvulsive Therapy is performed by a team of medical professionals specifically trained in its delivery. This team consists of a psychiatrist, anesthesiologist and nursing staff. The psychiatrist commonly delivers the ECT stimulation. The anesthesia team administers general anesthesia, medications and monitors the patient’s medical status throughout the procedure. After the treatment, nursing staff will continue to monitor the patient’s progress until they return to the inpatient or outpatient unit.

What to Expect after ECT?

While Electroconvulsive Therapy is an extremely effective treatment, it is only one component of a complete treatment regimen. After your ECT course, medications will likely be required as maintenance therapy to help prevent a return of your illness. ECT cannot resolve other problems associated with personal relationships or how an individual copes with the stressors of life. Other interventions such as psychotherapy may be recommended.

ECT REFERRAL CHECKLIST

To help determine if ECT is an appropriate for you, please share the following information with our staff:

• A brief history of present illness & symptoms
• Specific goals for ECT treatment
• Past psychiatric/substance abuse history
• Medical history
• Allergies
• Previous medication trials
• Current medications
• Mental status exam results
• Patient’s assets & strengths
• Pertinent lab work results
• Signature of referring psychiatrist

LEVELS OF CARE

By offering multiple levels of care, Centennial Peaks Hospital, as an ECT treatment center, is able to better serve our patients and their family members wherever they may be on the journey to recovery. In addition to Electroconvulsive Therapy, we offer adolescent and adult inpatient & outpatient care in Louisville, Colorado. Each program at Centennial Peaks Hospital can help our patients reach their goals and be provided with the tools necessary to live a happier, healthier life.

There are risks associated with any treatment procedure and individual results may vary. Please consult the dedicated professionals within the ECT program at Centennial Peaks Hospital to assess if you are a candidate for ECT treatment. Our Medical Staff will also consult with you on the risks and benefits of ECT treatment if you are a suitable candidate.