It's hard to believe something that's been around since the 1930's can still have a positive impact on your life.
Of course, the doctors and psychiatrists have made changes since then. Nurse Ratchet doesn't exist anymore, and images of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest doesn't exist at all - they're all just memories in a teenage movie goer's mind.
But, the basics still exist and have been improved upon.
Back then, way back then, there was no anesthesia used, memory loss, and fractured bones. Now, general anesthesia is administered during the ECT treatment so you'll be unconscious.
This most recent time while I had my treatment, I had an audience. Brendan McLaughlin and his camera crew. They were interviewing me about ECT treatments, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Stigma. Apparently, it will air some time early in February during Sweeps Week. When I have a firmer date, I'll let everyone know.
The message I wanted to get across was that ECT is the last line of intervention for major depression disorder, mania, and catatonia. The stigma from years ago is gone. ECT is safe and effective. ECT is considered one of the least harmful treatment options available.
These ECT sessions improve depression in 70-80% of patients - a response rate higher than that of antidepressant drugs.
So what are the side effects? Yes are there are some -
I usually suffer from a headache and take Fioricet for it. Others suffer from nausea, or muscle aches and soreness. Another I suffer from is disorientation and confusion.
I don't remember anything of the ECT procedure - which I think is a good thing. I wake up in a good mood - I'm happy, smiling, and ready to go home.
The best Bible verses I could find that fit were:
"He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds." Psalms 147:5
"We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair: persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed." 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
"The Lord will also be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble." Psalms 9:9
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 6-7
Have a Blessed day!!
As a side note: the segment will air on Tampa Bay ABC News on Feb 10th, 2015 at 11 pm. Don't forget to set your DVRs. I will make sure to have a post of it here on the blog.
