In recent years, medicine has vastly improved the diagnosis and treatment options available for those suffering from mental illness. New therapies and medications have helped countless people recover from debilitating psychiatric problems that were previously thought untreatable. Despite these advances, not everyone experiences the same success. For those struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other severe mental health challenges, Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is available at The Ridge Behavioral Health System.

Our ECT treatment team provides patients with an effective treatment program for their most intensive symptoms. This specialized treatment is available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to adult patients ages 18 and older when medication and therapy are not enough. Referrals for ECT treatment can be made by physicians, psychiatrists, mental health professionals, hospitals and concerned family members. An initial assessment for ECT can be made by contacting The Ridge at 859-268-6474 and asking for extension 302.

What is ECT?

Electroconvulsive Therapy is a treatment for adults 18 years and older who suffer from severe episodes of major depression, persistent suicidal ideation, mania and some types of schizophrenia and who have either not responded to medications or whose symptoms are too severe to permit medication trials.

Is ECT Effective?

Electroconvulsive Therapy has been proven to be a useful treatment method with more than half of severely treatment-resistant patients achieving remission, according to the National Institutes of Health. Still, there is no guarantee that ECT will be effective. Your doctor will discuss with you why ECT inpatient or ECT outpatient therapy is being recommended and what alternative treatments may be available.

How Does ECT work?

At The Ridge Behavioral Health System, Electroconvulsive Therapy is performed by a team of medical professionals specifically trained in its delivery. This team consists of a psychiatrist, anesthesiologist and nursing staff. The psychiatrist commonly delivers the ECT stimulation. The anesthesia team administers general anesthesia, medications and monitors the patient’s medical status throughout the procedure. After the treatment, nursing staff will continue to monitor the patient’s progress until they return to the inpatient or outpatient unit.

Is ECT safe?

Patients undergo medical and psychiatric evaluations before treatment to ensure they are appropriate for ECT. This procedure is administered by medical professionals who are trained in this specialty. Medications may be adjusted to minimize risk and maximize effectiveness. However, all treatments have risks and side effects. The most common side effects of ECT include muscle aches, nausea, short-term memory loss and headaches.

How are patients assessed?

There are risks associated with any treatment procedure and individual results may vary. Please consult the dedicated professionals within the ECT program at The Ridge Behavioral Health System to assess if you are a candidate for ECT therapy.

Referrals can be made by physicians, psychiatrists, mental health professionals and hospital staff. Once the evaluation is completed the patient will be asked to schedule an appointment with their primary care provider to complete a history and physical and any tests identified by the physician. This information is sent to the ECT team for review prior to scheduling treatment. Complete instructions and patient education will be provided at this time. Initial evaluation can be scheduled by contacting the ECT department at 859-268-2325 ext. 302.

There are risks associated with any treatment procedure and individual results may vary. Please consult the dedicated professionals within the ECT program at The Ridge Behavioral Health System to assess if you are a candidate for ECT treatment. Our Medical Staff will also consult with you on the risks and benefits of ECT treatment if you are a suitable candidate.

The Ridge Behavioral Health System offers treatment and services for children, adolescents and adults. We have professionals ready to help you explore the best treatment options for you or a loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us toll-free at 800-753-4673 (HOPE) or 859-269-2325 for a no-cost, confidential assessment. All information is held in the strictest of confidence. If you are currently experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.