electroconvulsive therapy

I am bipolar, have been hospitalized two times when I was manic (the only times I've been manic). Since my most recent hospitalization 07 I have been suffering through horrible depression. My pdoc has me on lamictal (stabilize my mood) has tried me on almost ever antidepressant, some don't work and others cause horrible side affects. I have been reading "Bipolar for Dummies" and I came to a small section about ECT. This is also something that my pdoc mentioned the last time I was in. Seems to have a higher success rate then meds, but it seems kind of frightening.... does anyone know anything about ECT, has anyone had it done or know someone that has?

I appreciate the info!
Karin

I started to seriously consider ECT for a while, and did a lot of online research through organizations like NIMH and the Mayo Clinic. It does sound terrifying, but according to my research, it can be quite successful, and it is very safe (not the horror movie stuff of the 50's or Cuckoo's Next or anything like that!) The only frustrating side effect I've read or heard about is some memory loss. Not like amnesia, but more like I can't remember if I read this book (even though you've read it twice). However, this seems to be temporary.

I will say that there are a lot of anti-psychiatry groups out there that are spreading the "horror myths" about ECT, so research through reputable sources, and bring questions to your doc if this is something you are thinking about.