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Electric Shock Treatment

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Bipolar Disorder
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Posted 3/26/2006 4:17 PM (GMT 0)
Hi everyone,  I am new to this particular board and I write on behalf of my much loved sister.  She was diagnosed with Bi-Polar mid 2005.  She is in a pretty bad state and is now being taken care of in a hospital for her condition.  Unfortunately none of the medications seem to be working for her and her doctors are now suggesting shock treatment.  Does anyone here have any first or second hand experience with this?

Many thanks,

Tamara

Posted 3/26/2006 4:32 PM (GMT 0)
Hi tamara,  I am really sorry about your sister.  I know it is so hard to see her go through all that she is.  I have had several clients of mine that were drug resistant that had ECT treatments some responded very well and others did not.  It is a very controversial treatment and the decision should be weighted very heavily before taken. 

I wish you and your sister much luck you will be in my thoughts and prayers.....

Posted 3/26/2006 4:46 PM (GMT 0)

Thank you very much Elisha.

Are you able to provide some statistics on how effective the treatment has been (or not)?  Also if successful does the patient usually wake up feeling like a new person?  What side effects can the patient suffer from after (I heard brain damage)?

I really appreciate your input and thank you for your response in advance....

Tamara 

Posted 3/26/2006 5:01 PM (GMT 0)

Statistics on the effectiveness of ECT treatments I really couldnt say.  I think it is about 1 in 3 that respond to it but dont quote me on that as I could very well be wrong with the number.  But was less that half that I do know.  However, most of my clients have additional disorders of Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorders so they can be pretty resistant to treatments. No, they wont see an immediate result from it either.  It usually takes many sessions.  I once stood in one a treatment being done a few years ago and was rather surprised as I expected what you would think of in the old movies.  I really wasn't too bad.  They are restrained and electrodes placed in the necessary places but it is pretty quick overall.  Here is a website for you to look at if you haven't already googled it....

http://www.healthyplace.com/communities/bipolar/treatment/ect.asp


Posted 3/27/2006 3:38 AM (GMT 0)
HiTamara: I had est 10 in all, and I would never have it again. It didnt do any good, and took away some of my short term memory. But for otheres it may work,good luck...Mary
Posted 3/28/2006 3:23 AM (GMT 0)
My parents want me to do this and I must admit to some fear. I am already experiencing some short term memory loss from medications that I take ....
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