<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe actual procedure is quite simple. I couldn’t eat after midnight because I was undergoing anesthesia. They start it early in the morning although I am sure different places may do it at different times. I would show up at around 6:30 am and start to be prepared for the procedure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The preparation started by inserting an IV so I can receive fluids as well as the anesthesia. Through the IV, the nurse gave me a mild, non-narcotic pain reliever and a muscle relaxer. The pain reliever was for the headache that typically accompanies treatment. The muscle relaxer is because your body will be going through an internal seizure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then I would be wheeled in my hospital bed over to where the procedure takes place. They would put some oxygen over my face and insert the anesthesia through my IV. The next thing that I experience is someone asking me how I am feeling. Without fail, my first thought is “when are you going to start the procedure?” Then I quickly realize that it is already over. The whole procedure from the time they put me asleep to the time they wake me up takes about 5 minutes. About 15 minutes later, my mom came to pick me up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The treatments were 3x per week initially then went down to 1x per week and then every 2 weeks. I completed a total of 14 treatments. They said because I am young that I shouldn’t need maintenance. However, if I need another treatment I can go back for one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What are some of the side effects you’ve experienced?<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe day of the procedure, especially right after, my body is a bit sore and I have a mild headache. My jaw is a little tight as well. I have some memory loss of events that happened right before the ECT but it’s been fairly mild. I have noticed a few memory issues but they are not significant. I just write things down more. I am told they won’t last very long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>What positive changes have you seen in yourself since the treatment?<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nI did a total of 14 treatments. Initially, the antidepressant effect was so significant that I was sent into mania. However, after a couple more treatments, I noticed that life was drastically different. I am much calmer, I don’t obsess or ruminate about things as much as I used to, and I don’t have such a short fuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I feel like I am a normal human being for the first time. I am hopeful and feel like I have a chance now at life. My relationships are better with my family. Specifically, I always had a hard time with my brother and it has been so much better. I am now getting the relationship with him that I always wanted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n