Electroconvulsive Therapy in Chattanooga, TN

Electroconvulsive therapy is a medical procedure used to alleviate symptoms of severe mental health conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and catatonia. Typically, ECT is used for patients who have not responded to traditional talk therapy or medication or who need rapid support. For example, patients who are at risk for suicide or life-threatening health complications may need an alternative approach to care. 

As a brain stimulation therapy, ECT works by sending electrical currents to the brain, which activates areas that are responsible for emotion regulation. By targeting the same brain regions that are affected by depression and other mental health disorders, ECT can promote better cognitive function and reduce debilitating symptoms like: 

• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness 
• Apathy 
• Low energy levels 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Abnormal sleep patterns 
• Loss of interest in daily activities 
• Changes in appetite or weight 

When considering ECT as a potential option, the qualified team at Erlanger Behavioral Health considers the following factors: 

• Severity and duration of symptoms 
• Urgency of care 
• Medical history and past interventions 
• Overall health condition 

We discuss the procedure’s benefits and drawbacks in depth with patients and their families so that they can make informed decisions about their care.  

An ideal candidate for ECT is someone who: 

• Continues to experience acute symptoms despite trying other therapy options 
• Requires immediate intervention to stabilize 
• Does not have a coexisting medical condition 

While ECT is safe and effective, it might not be suitable for patients who have any of the following:  

• Heart or respiratory problems  
• Brain tumors or abnormalities 
• Spinal injuries or osteoporosis 
• A history of adverse reactions to anesthesia 

The above factors can increase a person’s risk for complications during the procedure. Therefore, we exercise caution when considering ECT and always put our patients’ well-being first.  

At Erlanger Behavioral Health, our ECT-certified psychiatrist, anesthesiologist, certified registered nurse anesthetist, respiratory therapist, registered nurses, and patient care technicians administer ECT in a specialized suite designed for patient comfort and safety. The process generally involves the following steps: 

• Pre-procedure assessment: Before the procedure, a comprehensive assessment is conducted to determine the patient’s eligibility for ECT. This may include a physical examination, a review of medical history, and discussions about potential risks and side effects. 
• Preparation for the procedure: Patients should refrain from eating or drinking anything the night before the procedure.  
• Anesthesia administration: Our anesthesiologist performs general anesthesia and gives patients a muscle relaxant. This allows the patient to remain unconscious, unaware, and pain-free throughout the experience. 
• Electrode placement: Electrodes are placed on the patient’s scalp. The placement can be unilateral (one side of the head) or bilateral (both sides), depending on the patient’s needs. 
• Induction of seizure: A small electric current is delivered through the electrodes to induce a controlled seizure in the brain. We carefully monitor the patient’s brain activity to verify that the seizure lasts long enough to be effective.  
• Recovery phase: Upon waking from the seizure, the patient may experience temporary confusion or disorientation. We’ll guide them to a separate area where they can rest and recover. Our team will stay with the patient and closely track their vital signs until they return to a stable state. 
• Follow-up care: ECT is often administered in a series, with sessions scheduled several times a week. The exact frequency depends on individual needs and response to therapy. 

Throughout the ECT process, the healthcare team maintains clear communication with the patient, addressing any questions or concerns that may arise. 

Despite its proven success in modern medicine, ECT is still misunderstood and stigmatized by many. A major reason for this is its inaccurate portrayals in the media. Below are some common myths and the truths behind them. 

Myth: ECT is an outdated practice. 

Fact: Today’s ECT reflects years of research and improvement, making it an extremely valuable method in mental healthcare.  

Myth: ECT is dangerous. 

Fact: ECT is carefully regulated and performed by highly trained professionals in a safe environment. It is not like the chaotic or violent scenes depicted in movies. 

Myth: ECT causes memory loss and brain damage. 

Fact: ECT can cause a brief lapse in memory, but this typically resolves in the short term.  

Myth: ECT is painful and traumatizing. 

Fact: Patients receive general anesthesia and muscle relaxants prior to the procedure. Therefore, they do not feel any pain or have any awareness of the seizures. 

Myth: People can be forced to get ECT. 

Fact: Before undergoing ECT, patients must sign a consent form verifying that our team has thoroughly educated them about the procedure, its purpose, and any associated risks. Additionally, there are strict laws in place to protect patients who are unable to provide informed consent. We will follow all established protocols in such cases. 

Myth: ECT is only for severe depression. 

Fact: While ECT is often used to treat severe depression, it’s also effective for various other conditions, like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. 

Fact: ECT is a last-resort option. 

Myth: ECT can also be used when patients do not respond to traditional therapy methods or when rapid intervention is needed for safety reasons, such as suicidal thoughts or behaviors. 

Myth: ECT is a one-time procedure. 

Fact: The total number of ECT sessions varies from person to person, but it generally involves at least six sessions to achieve optimal results. 

Electroconvulsive therapy emerged in the 1930s as researchers explored how induced seizures could relieve severe mental health symptoms. However, with limited understanding of brain function and insufficient technology, practitioners often misused ECT and compromised patient safety. 

Now, more than 80 years later, ECT has evolved significantly, supported by extensive research and advancements in the field. These include: 

• Refined techniques: Modern ECT uses precise electrode placement and controlled stimulation methods to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects. Additionally, the introduction of anesthesia and muscle relaxants has greatly improved the patient experience. 
• Established guidelines: Professional organizations, including the American Psychiatric Association, have created comprehensive guidelines for the safe application of ECT. 
• Enhanced monitoring: Today, technology is much better, allowing medical professionals to monitor patients’ vital signs and brain activity in real time. 
• Patient consent policies: Informed consent is a vital part of the ECT process, enabling patients to make educated decisions regarding their care. 

Despite these improvements, ECT is still highly controversial among some people. Ongoing education is essential to reduce misconceptions and highlight its lifesaving potential.  

At Erlanger Behavioral Health Hospital, we take a compassionate approach to care, guided by the latest research and best practices. In our ECT program, we strive to transform the lives of our patients by:  

• Creating custom care plans for each patient’s unique journey toward wellness 
• Facilitating family involvement and peer connections through group and family therapies 
• Providing one-on-one support in individual therapy sessions 
• Incorporating medication management services to address physical health concerns 

Our ECT program is available in both inpatient and outpatient settings, allowing us to tailor it to the diverse needs of each patient. By offering these comprehensive services, we aim to create a pathway to healing and hope.