Maintenance ECT as an outpatient

[Blue_skies]

Hi,

I haven’t posted on BB for quite a while but have been reading posts and finding them very helpful.

I’m currently receiving ECT once a fortnight as maintenance therapy and as an outpatient. Recently, I had a stay in hospital for quite a severe episode of depression and anxiety where I had ECT. It has been suggested about 18 months ago that I may be Bipolar type 2 and it all makes sense over the years. ECT works the best for me as I also had a course about 18 months ago while in hospital.

The reason for continuing the maintenance ECT is to avoid as much as possible the need to go to hospital or just have a general ‘dip’ in mood. I don’t have any negative side effects of ECT, I just try to not overdo things that day.

For me it’s been a lifesaver as I’ve gone from not being able to get out of bed in the morning to being to get out of bed and starting the day. I’m still recovering from my last episode and I’ve only been out of hospital for about 3 weeks.

My question is...has anyone who has received ECT keep receiving it as an ongoing therapy as an outpatient? If so, have you noticed any side effects? My husband says he’s noticed memory issues in me, and I told him that it’s better than me wanting to die. And depression can affect memory too!

Many thanks,

Blue Skies

[white knight]

Hi again

I'm sorry you havent had a reply yet.

With this reply your post will go back on page 1, so you might get noticed.

The only comment I can make is that I'm bp2 and my short term memory isnt good. It could be meds, maybe a symptom of stress, I dont know but with less going on in my life my memory improves.

I'm impressed with your tenacity with your ECT.

TonyWK

[Blue_skies]

Thanks for your words of encouragement white knight. That's good your memory improves with less going on in your life, I find that the same for me too. I'll keep hanging in there with the ECT as I find it helps keep my head above water.

Blue skies

[Nurse_Jenn]

Hi Blue skies,

Great question and one that I don't have a huge amount of experience with unfortunately. I am also impressed with your commitment to healing and finding a sustained recovery as white knight pointed out. Memory loss related to ECT can occur for some people but it is a very individual experience.

There has been some research into improving memory post-ECT treatments that I was able to look up but I could not find a specific program that is dedicated to people who have had ECT. The discussion of the research indicates that by doing cognitive training or regular brain training exercises that improve memory may lead to better outcomes for people who have memory loss and poor concentration post-ECT.

If you are interested in reading about improving and exercising your brain, there are a few websites that I recommend.

https://yourbrainmatters.org.au

https://www.lumosity.com/en/

Sorry I can't be more help but please reach out with any other questions you may have.

Wishing you the best possible outcome,
Nurse Jenn