This paper aims to address the common fears service users and family members have about ECT. We believe that it will also give psychiatrists a better understanding of the concerns of users and families about the treatment. We also hope that the paper may dispel many of the myths surrounding ECT for the general public.
Doctors should use this perspective paper on ECT together with the CPsychI position paper on ECT to facilitate informed discussion with patients and their families in the process of getting agreement to treatment with ECT.
The College of Psychiatrists of Ireland’s position paper on ECT states that ECT is an effective, safe treatment, that it is given in well regulated situations and that it is now accompanied by a lot of information which is provided to those who have the treatment prescribed. Nevertheless, we felt there was a need for a paper with more information.