Novel approach for treatment-resistant depression

Each year, more than 14 million American adults suffer from major depressive disorder, making it one of the leading causes of disability.

Electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT, is a treatment option for people who have not had success with other treatments for a major depressive disorder. This type of therapy is believed to modify signals within the brain to relieve symptoms of depression.

ECT can be an effective treatment for people who:

  • Have not responded to antidepressant drugs
  • Cannot take antidepressant medications
  • Are having delusions or other psychotic symptoms with depression
  • Are pregnant and severely depressed
  • Are suicidal

ECT is an effective, extensively studied and underused psychiatric treatment; it is the gold standard for treatment-refractory major depression. Mental Health America estimates that more than 100,000 ECT procedures are performed annually. However, despite its robust and rapid benefits, ECT remains one of the most misunderstood medical treatments.

UF Health has well-trained ECT professionals who can answer questions and alleviate concerns about this kind of treatment. It offers a comprehensive ECT program for outpatients and inpatients, directed by a board-certified psychiatrist specifically trained in ECT. The treatment is delivered by a multidisciplinary team, including ECT credentialed psychiatrists, anesthesiologists, nurses and technicians.

To schedule an evaluation at UF Health Psychiatry, call (352) 265-5481. Find more information at UFHealth.org/ECT.