A study of Electroconvulsive Therapy's Impact on Major Depressive Disorder and Its Possible Causes

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been utilized since 1938 as a viable alternative to chemically induced seizures in the treatment of various psychiatric disorders. Despite encountering historical stigma, controversy, and limited accessibility, ECT has demonstrated its efficacy and utility in cases of severe depression where conventional medications have been found to be ineffective. The main objective of study is to evaluate Electroconvulsive Therapy's Impact on Major Depressive Disorder and (MDD) Its Possible Causes.
Method: In this study, 120 adult participants with MDD and mixed mood disorders had their ECT treatment effects on depressive symptoms examined. The study monitored changes in treatment response over time using standardized assessments and statistical analyses, such as linear mixed modeling. Strict adherence to ethical guidelines guaranteed the rights and welfare of participants. The large sample size and strict ethical supervision of the study improve the validity and relevance of its conclusions.
Result: An investigation into electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) diagnoses of MINI at various stages reveals a high prevalence of depression, stable rates of MDD, and variable rates of bipolar disorder. Percentages for anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and substance use disorders are among the findings. Variations in suicidality levels are observed. Multiple diagnoses, cognitive evaluations (RBANS, TOPF), and baseline differences are all included in the data. The scores of response groups (non-responders, remitters, responders) differ significantly according to the  WHODAS and BDI-II. After ECT, the study observes a time-dependent effect on WHODAS
scores. A correlation between diminished depressive symptoms and diminished disability symptoms is indicated by linear regression. In the table of causes and follow-up, symptoms reported by the sample population are detailed.
Conclusion: The study examines how well electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) works for treating severe depression, with a focus on how it affects major depressive illness. In this study, 120 adults received acute outpatient ECT, and functional disability and depressive symptoms are measured using standardized tests. Findings indicate that ECT successfully reduces depression symptoms, however remission rates differ according to clinical complexity. Although encouraging, the study highlights the need for additional research to determine the variables influencing ECT remission rates, even though it acknowledges ECT's potential as a first-line treatment for depression.