Abstract
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most effective forms of therapy of severe psychiatric conditions. ECT is often perceived negatively by the general public, however the negative perspective of ECT is in contrast with a real perspective of ECT by patients themselves and their relatives.
In this study we have observed patients (N=67) and their relatives - mostly family members (N=50), who have been treated with ECT at the Department of Psychiatry, First Faculty of Medicine and General University Hospital in Prague. Both groups have filled a questionnaire after finishing the treatment (series of ECT), which evaluated the effectivity, awareness, and possible pressure to undergo the treatment.
Part of the questionnaire was also to evaluate side effects and willingness to repeat ECT again in the future, if indicated. Most of the patients (over 80%) were content with the treatment, they considered it effective, and they were not afraid to undergo ECT again, despite approximately one third of the group reporting to experience some form of mild adverse effects.
Patients? relatives had also similarly positive attitude towards ECT, which was used to treat their close ones. Positive feedback from patients themselves and their relatives can help to reduce the stigmatization of ECT, which can help future patients.