refused treatment - ECT

[fat_and_depressed]

Hi,

I have been severely depressed for the last 3 years or so but has been extremely bad for the past 4 months, during which time I made an attempt at my life. I have enquired about ECT as a possibility to a few psychiatrists but they just shrug it off as though it's a completely ridiculous idea . why do they do this? I am a perfect candidate. I have been on 6 different medications, been in therapy, and been hospitalised 5ish times over the duration of my mental illness and nothing has helped. I'm only 19 and maybe that's why? I told the doctors I completely understand all the side effects and that I'd rather have memory loss for the rest of my life than be dead. 

I feel like I have one last shot at life and recovery but no one seems to want to give it to me.

I don't really know what my question is, I more just need some advice from people who've been in similar situations?

Thanks 🙂

beyondblue's clinically-trained moderators often work offline (invisible to you) on issues relating to suicide or self-harm. At the same time, general supportive comments from the community are encouraged. If you have concerns around suicide or self-harm, please phone our support service on 1300 22 4636.

[Sophie_M]

Hi old but young, thanks for your post.

It sounds like you are also trying to find a service that will provide you with support around ECT or to generally help your recovery. You might like to discuss your treatment options with a youth focused mental health service such as Headspace and the details of the most local service to you can be found here:

In your post you mentioned that you had “attempt at your life” and it sounds like you could really use some extra support around managing the overwhelming emotions that trigger these thoughts. If you are at risk of harming yourself it is important to get help immediately. You can do this by calling your local Mental Health Team. If you feel unable to keep yourself from acting on your thoughts about suicide this is an emergency and you need to call 000 (triple zero).

Self-care can be quite an important strategy given the emotional strain you can experience during this time and some useful things you can try to help you are:

• Stay connected to friends and family and use support groups
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
• Stay healthy – Eat healthy meals, exercise regularly, get a good night’s sleep and keep use of drugs and alcohol to a minimum.
• Make time to participate in enjoyable activities.

It is important that you take steps to keep yourself safe. We encourage you to call the beyondblue Support Service on 1300 22 4636. We can help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with counselling support, information and referrals.

Please continue to reach out for Old But Young. We are here to support you and hope you find some helpful responses here online.