Electroconvulsive therapy is a proven, safe, effective treatment which works many times when medications fail. Due to new technological advances and anaesthesia technique, it has become an Out Patient based treatment and prolonged admission is usually not required. As for adverse effects and negative impact, there are only a few and most are temporary and reversible. There are no absolute contraindications for ECT. It can be given even in pregnant females, safely and effectively. So, if ECT is advised, you may consider that option favourably.

For your First question - Yes! ECT works!! And it works pretty fast and effectively than our medications in most cases, however, it works for short term only say few days to few weeks! Once you stop them, it's effect will fade away but till then your medications and psychological therepies will take the charge of treating the depression, as they do require some time to act, say atleast 1 week to upto 6 weeks. So we will save that late action time of medications with the ECTs! For your 2nd query - Yes, there are side effects, however they are very mild and reversible in most cases! Usually short term forgetfulness, confusion , headache and bodyache can occur. Critical complications are very very rare unless some critical comorbidities are there in the patients or if they are not physically fit to undergo ECTs. But before starting ECT, ur psychiatrist will assure fitness from anaesthesia and medicine doctor. So rest assured! Hope it helps!