If you're considering ECT for yourself or a loved one, I suggest you ask lots of questions first.

Ask questions beyond what the procedure is like, or how soon you can resume activities after, or how many treatments you might have.

These are important questions to ask:

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-Specifically how will sending voltage through my brain inducing a seizure improve my mental disorder?

-Is your ECT equipment regularly monitored and inspected, and could I see the latest paperwork?

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-What kind of brain imaging will you have performed on me before and after each ECT procedure?

-Will you continue to monitor for cognitive deficits for several years after I have ECT?

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-What rehabilitative services can you guide me to if I experience neurological problems after having ECT, and who will pay for these services?

-May I see studies of the effectiveness of ECT that also include the cases when ECT was not helpful?

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-May I see studies of long-term effects of ECT on people who have had it?

(These answers will NOT appear on the ECT consent form. Friends who've had ECT, please feel free to add more suggested questions one might ask before having ECT.)

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