WHY THIS BOOKLET HAS BEEN WRITTEN

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) has been used in Scotland for half a century. It is viewed in the medical profession as safe, effective and painless, with a low risk of unacceptable side effects. Furthermore, psychiatrists believe it can save lives.

However, this view has not always been shared by the public; this is perfectly understandable. Much of what people believe about ECT comes from the way it is portrayed in films, television drama and documentary, where the purpose is often to entertain or to be controversial.

The concerns most frequently expressed are that ECT is ineffective, creates unacceptable side effects and is given disproportionately to the elderly, women and the disadvantaged.

Not only is there little or no scientific evidence to back up these concerns, but the results of the national audit carried out from February 1996 to August 1999, covering all ECT sites in Scotland, show these fears to be largely without foundation.

This booklet is drawn from recent literature and research published on ECT supplemented by findings of the National Audit.