Current Recommendations on Electroconvulsive therapy Usage Part 2

ECT is used much less often today partly because of the availability of more potent and safer anti depressants and also the development of the field of psychotherapy. Plus, there are a variety of organizations and social support groups to help mental health patents overcome their disabilities

Even so, depression can take an acute turn for the worse with the individual going downhill fast and not eating, talking or even communicating. Some may develop acute psychosis and delusions and become very suicidal.

In these cases, ECT may offer a rapid therapeutic benefit compared to what is available and may be an excellent alternative. All current scientific data indicate that for acute depression with suicidal tendencies, ECT is an excellent form of therapy.

Many individuals who have had ECT in the past have found it helpful and seek the treatment when they feel depressed again.

ECT is relatively expensive. The costs of the treatment depend on which state one is receiving the therapy, the cost of anesthesia and the fees of the psychiatrist. On average the costs of ECT are about $ 800-$1200. The cost covers the fee for anesthesia, the psychiatrist and hospital admission. Most individuals receive anywhere from 6-8 treatments.

Many medical insurance plans and Medicare do reimburse the cost of ECT. While this may not sound cheap, it is a lot cheaper than taking anti depressant drugs for life