ECT and memory

Is memory permanently affected by electroconvulsive therapy?

This is not an easy answer. Some patients receive 8-12 sessions and have no memory loss and others undergo 2-4 sessions and have memory loss. On average, there is some memory loss in all patients after the procedure. The short-term memory is most affected.

If you have not recovered the memory after 12 months following ECT; it is unlikely you will recover it ever again. In any case, ECT is nothing like what it was in the past. It is a great procedure and can significantly improve the quality of life. The procedure is relatively safe and produces good results in most people. The stigma surrounding ECT from the 1950s continues to give it a bad rap, but the procedure is safe.