How electroconvulsive therapy heals the brain − new insights into ECT, a stigmatized yet highly effective treatment for depression
- Written by Sydney E. Smith, Ph.D. Candidate in Computational Neuroscience, University of California, San Diego
Electroconvulsive therapy involves inducing a controlled seizure under anesthesia.Inkoly/iStock via Getty Images PlusWhen most people hear about electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT, it typically conjures terrifying images of cruel, outdated and pseudo-medical procedures. Formerly known as electroshock therapy, this perception of ECT as dangerous and...

