Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

Alteration of Nerve Activity Through Targeted Delivery of a Stimulus

How ECT works

Electroconvulsive therapy is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, low-dose electrical currents pass through the brain, intentionally causing a brief seizure. This seizure alters brain chemistry, which can quickly improve symptoms of certain mental health conditions. Modern ECT is safe and controlled, minimizing discomfort and maximizing mental health benefits.

Is electroconvulsive therapy right for you?

Electroconvulsive therapy is offered at Morristown and Overlook medical centers and is sometimes recommended for individuals who fit the following criteria:

Experiencing severe depression

Particularly when accompanied by psychosis, thoughts of self-harm, or failure to thrive

Experiencing treatment-resistant depression

When depression does not improve with medications or other treatments

Diagnosed with mania

Defined as intense euphoria, agitation, or hyperactivity as part of bipolar disorder

Diagnosed with catatonia

Defined as a lack of movement, strange movements, lack of speech, often related to schizophrenia

Struggling with dementia paired with aggression

When symptoms negatively affect quality of life and other treatments have failed

Have one of these conditions and are pregnant or may become pregnant

When medication use is limited to avoid harming the developing fetus

Have one of these conditions and have a lower tolerance for medication

May not be able to manage drug side effects

Have one of these conditions and have had previous success with electroconvulsive therapy

May be recommended again in similar circumstances

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Electroconvulsive therapy

How ECT works

Need behavioral health services?

Is electroconvulsive therapy right for you?

Related information

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