Abstract

Authored by the authors regarded as experts in their respective field, and who spear-headed the re-introduction of ECT as a safe and an effective treatment option for a subgroup of adolescents with severe psychiatric disorders, this resource offers a review of the existing literature, first-hand experience, and highly informative case descriptions. It also offers a historical perspective, explaining the reasons why ECT fell out of favor, and discusses the mechanism of action ECT, describes biological mechanisms that are known to underlie mental illness, the stigma associated with ECT, ethical and informed consent issues, a step-by-step guidance about using ECT, use of anesthesia during ECT, and the interaction between ECT and medications. It also covers side effects of the treatment and dispels misinformation and indicates that ECT is a safe, painless and a highly effective procedure which is not associated with any lasting side effects, as well as the use of ECT in the treatment of specific disorders (mood and psychotic disorders, severe self-injury and catatonia), using case examples.

Table of Contents