Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Structured intervention for complex needs. ECT is an advanced intervention, one that is used carefully and only when needed.What is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a medical procedure performed under general anaesthesia where controlled, low-dose electric currents trigger a brief seizure in the brain. This process can alter brain chemistry in ways that bring rapid relief from symptoms of certain mental health conditions.
Benefits Of ECT
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a proven treatment for certain severe mental health conditions. At Amaha, it is carried out using modern, safe techniques with careful medical supervision to ensure your comfort and well-being.Rapid relief from severe symptoms, especially important when urgent improvement is needed.
Effective for life-threatening depression, psychosis, or catatonia, even when other treatments have failed.
May be safely repeated in the future if symptoms return, with close medical monitoring.
When is ECT recommended?
ECT can be a valuable option when symptoms are severe, life-threatening, or not responding to standard treatment.
ECT may be right for you if:
It may help reduce risk and bring rapid clinical stabilisation in cases such as:
- Major depression with suicidal thoughts
- Catatonia or extreme withdrawal
- Severe agitation, aggression, or psychosis
- Mood disorders that have not improved with other treatments
Conditions under which ECT is not recommended:
- You have recently had a heart attack or have unstable heart disease.
- You have increased pressure inside your brain (which can be caused by swelling, bleeding, or certain growths in the brain).
- You have certain brain conditions, such as tumours, bleeding, or recent brain injury.
What happens during an ECT session?
ECT is a safe and evidence-based treatment for certain mental health conditions. In a clinical setting, it is performed under anesthesia, closely monitored by a team of specialists, and typically brings relief from symptoms when other treatments have not been effective.
- You are given anaesthesia and a muscle relaxant before the procedure.
- A small, controlled electrical current is passed through your brain while you are asleep.
- This triggers a brief seizure lasting under a minute.
- Each session lasts only a few minutes, with recovery monitoring to follow.
Step-by-step patient experience:
1
Evaluation
2
Consent and Preparation
3
Treatment
4
Recovery & Follow-up
Effects Of ECT
ECT is considered safe when performed under medical supervision, but like any treatment, it may have some temporary side effects. At Amaha, our experts will guide you through what to expect and closely monitor your recovery after each session.
Headache or muscle soreness. Usually mild and treatable with medication.
Nausea can occur after the procedure but generally subsides quickly.
Some people feel disoriented for a short time after waking from anesthesia.
Temporary memory loss, especially for events around the time of treatment, is possible but often improves over days to weeks.
Why choose ECT at Amaha?
Delivered by a trained, multidisciplinary team.
Supported by anaesthesia, medical evaluation, and post-session recovery.
Offered only in cases of clinical need, never as a routine default.
Designed to support short-term stabilisation and long-term treatment planning.
Safety and regulations for ECT at Amaha
At Amaha, every step of care follows the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. These safeguards are a core part of how we protect dignity and choice in care.Informed consent is always taken before ECT
If a person cannot provide consent, authorisation is obtained from the Nominated Representative or the Mental Health Review Board
Only modified ECT is used, unmodified forms are not permitted under Indian law
Cognitive health is monitored before, during, and after the treatment series
Need help or have questions about ECT?
If you’re unsure and need more information about ECT, we’re here to answer your queries.We’re here to help you
You don’t need to have it all figured out; that’s what we’re here for. Fill out the form to connect with our team. We'll help you explore if this is the right option for you or your loved one, answer your questions, and help you access the care you need.ECT IS OFFERED AT:
Amaha Mental Health Hospital463, 14th Cross, M.C.E.C.H.S. Layout, Main road, Dr Shivarama Karanth Nagar, RK Hegde Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560077
+91 88288 03935
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Your questions about ECT, answered
How do I get an ECT session at Amaha?
- Evaluation: A thorough mental health and medical assessment is done to confirm if ECT is the right option, especially for severe or urgent cases.
- Consent and preparation: Your psychiatrist will explain benefits, risks, and the treatment plan. Pre-procedure instructions and anaesthesia clearance are completed.
- Treatment: ECT is performed in a hospital setting under general anaesthesia. Small electrical currents are applied to the brain to trigger a brief, controlled seizure.
- Recovery and Follow-up: You'll rest in a recovery room until fully awake, then go home the same day (accompanied with someone). Sessions may be repeated several times a week for a few weeks, as advised by your psychiatrist.
ECT can be accessed without hospital admission at Amaha.
What is the cost for ECT?
The cost for ECT varies based on the number of sessions. Please contact us at +91 88288 03935 for detailed pricing.
How does ECT work?
ECT delivers a small, controlled electrical current to the brain to trigger a brief seizure. This can reset brain chemistry and quickly improve symptoms of certain severe mental health conditions.
Is ECT safe?
Yes. ECT is considered safe and effective when conducted with modern equipment, anaesthesia, and continuous monitoring.
How many sessions are required?
Typically involves multiple sessions over several weeks. The exact number is based on your condition and response to treatment.
What are the side effects?
- Temporary memory gaps, especially around the time of treatment.
- Mild headache or muscle soreness.
- Short-term confusion after the procedure.
- Recovery and Follow-up: You’ll rest in a recovery room until fully awake, then go home the same day (accompanied with someone). Sessions may be repeated several times a week for a few weeks, as advised by your psychiatrist.
Do I need medication afterwards?
Often yes. Medication and therapy usually continue post-ECT to help sustain improvements.
