ECT appears to have worked for me.
Written by
daveg01
29. Jan 2006 08:31 AM
After having battled severe depression for the last three years, and having tried a number of anti-depressants (Zoloft, Effexor, Endep, Prozac, Avanza and Valium to name a few), I decided to admit myself to a highly respected private hospital in Queensland where I initially underwent a course of TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation).
Fortunately, this treatment worked well for me, and I was able to withdraw from Valium and other meds, and was placed on Lexapro and Endronax.
However, three months later, due to circumstances beyond my control, my condition returned and I was at wits end and decided to end my life.
I had an appointment for a follow up with the Psychiatrist treating me in the private hospital, and explained the circumstances and my feelings and he suggested that I be re-admitted and be given a course of ECT (Electro Convulsive Therapy).
I had previously undergone ECT some two years earlier and had experienced a slight change in moods, but thought that I had nothing else to lose so agreed to give it a go.
Well here I am, six weeks later and although I still have my bad days, overall my mood has changed somewhat for the better although I still experience insomnia.
To counter the insomnia, I take Stilnox and Neulactil and whilst the Neulactil works well in getting me off to sleep, it has one main side affect in that it has enlarged my breasts (Oh! by the way, I am male) and made them somewhat sore.
But I guess I can be grateful for small mercies and hope to continue to have improved moods.
I am still on Lexapro and Endronax, but at least I find that I can face each day better than I was able to before my ECT.
So should anyone out there be faced with the prospect of ECT, take it from me that it is nothing to fear and is nothing like the old days. As a last resort, it is a worthwhile option although one which should be discussed with your family and the procedures explained to prevent unecessary anxiety.
I welcome any questions regarding the procedure.
Dave
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