I had it done twice. First was unilateral for 4 months. Didn't work. Second time was bilateral for 17 months. It didn't work either. The only reason it stopped is I told them to because I have lost major chunks of my long term memory, and my short term and cognitive are also worse. Its been 14 months since I stopped it and the memory hasn't come back, so I assume it will not. Understand tho, that I have also been on about 60 meds in the 11 years I have been severe and none of them have really worked either. Some did for a short time, then at a maxed out dose they would have to add something else. I'm on Lamictal for the 3rd time along with parnate. Lamictal is one of the few meds you can mix with parnate. So basically, my depression is non-responsive with treatment.

I am currently in the maintenance phase of ECT as well and it saved my life more than once. I have been getting them since 2003 and anytime the meds stop working it's my "go to" and always ends the severe depression. Glad to see they are working for you too!!

I have been doing series of them for years. I am currently doing what they call maintenance treatments where I get one a week. I do agree they should be a last resort. I have never had a negative experience. They put you to sleep and when you wake up it's over. I have been lucky not to have any memory issues as I have heard they can cause short term memory loss. But if I compare that to being suicidal or severely depressed I choose the ECT. I have had as many as 16 in a series and many times they have lasted for months to several years. I think everyone is different. If you have any other questions hit me up!!

I had it and it only helped for the duration of the treatment. Although it can be effective, I would only consider it as last option. The treatment itself I very uncomfortable and for me pretty scary. Also I don't remember much of the year prior.

I WOULD HIGHLY SUGGEST NOT unless .. you really feel no other option my friend. Meditate pick up hobbies to distract your mind just try everything else. This is not a no brainer decision.