Flow Neuroscience
Aug. 25, 2025
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) often comes up when standard depression treatments haven’t worked. But how effective is it really?
ECT effectiveness: What the science says
In 2012, a research review, including 1106 patients with depression or bipolar disorder, showed that 51% of the depressed patients and 53% of the patients with bipolar disorder completely recovered after ECT treatment. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Explained
Other studies have reported even higher success rates, with up to 75% of patients experiencing complete remission from depression after ECT.
When is ECT recommended?
- Severe depression
- Suicidal ideation or high suicide risk
- Treatment-resistant depression (when medication and therapy fail)
- Bipolar disorder and severe mania
Quick relief of severe symptoms
Unlike antidepressants or psychotherapy, which can take weeks, ECT provides rapid relief—often noticeable within days or a week.
ECT is a highly effective, research-backed treatment option, especially valuable when depression becomes severe or life-threatening.