What is ECT?
Electroconvulsive Therapy is the oldest and, for severe depression, still the most effective psychiatric treatment we have. Modern ECT has very little in common with the procedure shown in old movies — it's done under brief general anesthesia, with muscle relaxants so your body doesn't move, and the electrical dose is highly individualized. Response rates of 70-90% for severe and treatment-resistant depression are typical, often within 1-3 weeks.
ECT is the first-line treatment when depression is life-threatening, psychotic, catatonic, or has failed multiple medication trials. It's also used for severe mania, bipolar depression, and Parkinson's-related depression. Sessions take about 5-10 minutes of actual treatment plus 30-60 minutes of recovery. A typical course is 6-12 sessions over 2-4 weeks.
- Insurance: Universally covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance for severe depression.
- Cost: ~$300-$1,000 per session retail; copays often $0-$100 with insurance.
- Side effects: Temporary memory loss is the main concern — typically resolves over weeks to months. Brief confusion post-procedure. Headache.
Should You Consider ECT?
Six quick questions to see if ECT may be appropriate for your situation. ECT is generally considered when other treatments have failed or when symptoms are too severe to wait for them to work.
If you are in crisis: call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
What's the primary condition you're seeking treatment for?
Are you currently experiencing any of the following?
How many treatments have you tried in your current episode without enough relief?
Do you have any of the following medical conditions?
How do you feel about ECT's main side effect — temporary memory issues that usually resolve over weeks to months?
Can you arrange transportation, time off work, and someone to be with you on treatment days for 2-4 weeks?
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ECT Is Likely Appropriate to Discuss
Based on your answers, ECT fits the standard clinical profile — severe symptoms or treatment-resistance, no major safety contraindications, willing to accept the temporary memory side effects. ECT has the highest response rate of any psychiatric treatment for severe depression. The right next step is an evaluation with a psychiatrist who can refer to an ECT program.
Read the Full ECT Guide Find a Psychiatrist for ReferralECT Could Be an Option, But Probably Not First
ECT is typically reserved for severe, life-threatening, or repeatedly treatment-resistant cases. Based on your answers, less invasive options like TMS or Spravato may be worth trying first — they have meaningful efficacy with far fewer logistical and cognitive trade-offs. If those have failed, ECT remains the most powerful option available.
Try the Treatment Decision Tree Check TMS Eligibility FirstECT May Not Be the Right Path
Based on your answers, ECT carries risks (cardiac/anesthesia concerns, contraindicated medical conditions, or memory side effects you can't accept) that outweigh likely benefit at your current severity. TMS is a strong alternative — same effectiveness category for many patients, no anesthesia, no memory effects.
Explore TMS for Depression Compare All Treatment OptionsThis quiz is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Only a licensed psychiatrist can determine if ECT is appropriate for you.
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Treatments & Conditions
Insurance & Cost
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Medicaid Coverage for TMS -
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Blue Cross Blue Shield Coverage - TMS Cost Guide
- TMS Cost Calculator
TMS Specialists
- Perera Board-certified — Danbury, CT
- Dina Zayat — Newport Beach, CA
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- Arde Anoshivani — Newport Beach, CA
