Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Our ECT Treatment Program Offers a Ray of Hope
For more than fifty years, Carrier Clinic® has provided this well-researched and effective treatment option for those suffering from certain mental illnesses. Electroconvulsive Therapy is most often used to treat depression with psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, and treatment-resistant Schizophrenia. It is also helpful in the treatment of other disorders that have not responded to medication, such as Catatonia and chemical imbalances.One of the largest Electroconvulsive Therapy treatment providers on the East Coast, Carrier Clinic® has a long history in providing life-changing services through these procedures. Carrier Clinic®’s staff are among the most experienced in the field, and use the most modern technology. In addition to our inpatient services we also offer outpatient ECT treatment services. In most cases, an evaluation and treatment can be scheduled within two days.
What to Expect With ECT Treatments
Patients lay down on a bed and are given a muscle relaxant. Monitors are applied to check heart rate and EKG, oxygen level and pulse oximeter, as well as blood pressure. General anesthesia is administered intravenously, so the patient will be unconscious during the procedure. Electrodes are attached to the head, and a small amount of electrical current is introduced in short pulses, producing seizure activity. This causes the brain to produce and use serotonin and norepinephrine–brain chemicals that are low when someone is depressed.
Crisis Hotlines
Essex County
Mountainside Medical Center973-429-6963
Hudson County
Palisades Medical Center201-854-5760
Middlesex County
Old Bridge Medical Center732-324-5289
Raritan Bay Medical Center
732-442-3794
Monmouth County
Jersey Shore University Medical Center732-776-4555
Riverview Medical Center
732-219-5325
Ocean County
Ocean University Medical Center732-836-8972
Southern Ocean Medical Center
609-978-8972
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) FAQs
Treatment is most commonly prescribed for severe depression, where symptoms include:
- Sad, blue, low mood
- Altered appetite with weight changes
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Low energy
- Poor concentration
- Decreased interest in things that once gave you pleasure
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or helplessness
- Feelings of guilt
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Increased worrying