h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

A good entry - but I felt it too easily glossed over those who campaign against the use of ECT in this country, whose question would not be "how does it work" but "does it work?".

Or maybe I should just write my own entry on Anti-Psychiatric movements.

I do agree actually but I wanted to write an informative article on the history of ECT rather than getting into an anti-treatment diatribe. The websites referenced are not particularly in favour if you follow them so there is a balance of views including my own that I'm not sure whether the treatment worked or not for me.

Namaste

OK, I see what you mean. One of these days, I'll have a look at doing a separate entry about the Politics of ECT.

My own view, from 10 years' experience with people with severe mental health difficulties, is whilst it should remain a "last resort" option, the safeguards on its use aren't enough to ensure that where consent is required, it is given freely without pressure or threat of withdrawal of treatment.

But much respect that you've chosen to put forward your own experience and opinion, and for such a comprehensive entry.

LIke all treatment for mental illness the unwanted effects of ECT are pretty bad, but in some circumstances (pregnancy and refractory disease especially) ECT is, at least, an alternative.

Friar