Hi. I have also considered ECT. I have not yet done this but I did find out a lot about the procedure. It is much refined these days, but does require multiple treatments over several weeks. Each treatment is done under a general anaesthetic, so it is not just a zap then better. For me, living in a remote area, it was virtually impossible to be able to have a course. I think some places require you to be an inpatient for several weeks, but I'm not sure if this is always required.
I did see ECT being done on a patient in the ABC TV series Changing Minds (series 1, episode 2) which is available online. The guy had had several ECT treatments over the years. Unfortunately, it is not a permanent solution.
I am not a dr. But I do keep up on options for treatment. There have been several new treatments for depression being trialled or now in use. These include transcranial stimulation and latest trials on ketamine administration seem promising - black dog institute website have more information on these.
Make sure you investigate all of your options. Over many years and several very long bouts of depression, I really can't say what works for me. I have felt better after doing online CBT, but this does require ongoing commitment to complete the course. Other episodes just seem to spontaneously resolve, perhaps life improves, circumstances change and the sun just starts shining again. This has been after 5-8yr episodes. I wish I did know what my switch was, all I do know is that it is there. Sunshine always follows rain.
