How often and how many times is ECT given?

ECT is usually given twice a week, with a few days in between each treatment. It can take several sessions before you notice an improvement.

It is not possible to predict, in advance, how many treatments you will need. On average, you will receive 9 or 10 treatments in a course, although it is common to have more.

If you have had no improvement at all after 6 treatments, your treatment plan will be reviewed with your doctor to discuss whether to continue or change the form of ECT.

Your medical team will review your progress and any side effects, usually every week. You will be asked about your memory and it will be tested regularly.

ECT will usually be stopped soon after you have made a full recovery, or if you say you don’t want to have it anymore and are well enough to understand this decision.