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Family Presence During Electroconvulsive Therapy.
Alby Elias, Angela Ang1, Andrew Schneider1
1Peter James Centre, Eastern Health, Victoria, Australia.
The Journal of ECT
|December 12, 2018
Summary
Family attendance during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was found to be a beneficial experience for most, alleviating fears and misconceptions. This practice has the potential to reduce stigma associated with ECT.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Mental Health Treatment
Background:
- Stigma and myths surrounding electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) hinder its practice.
- Systematic studies on family attendance during ECT are lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact and experiences of family members attending electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) sessions.
- To assess the potential of family presence in reducing ECT-related stigma.
Main Methods:
- 69 patients were approached for family attendance at ECT between January 2017 and May 2018.
- Inclusion criteria: patient/family consent, age >18, one family member present.
- Family members completed a post-attendance questionnaire.
Main Results:
- 21 family members attended ECT; 76% found the experience comfortable or rewarding.
- 71% reported reduced fears or gained knowledge about ECT.
- 62% recommended family attendance to others; no adverse effects were reported.
Conclusions:
- Family attendance at ECT is largely viewed as a beneficial experience.
- Family presence during ECT can potentially reduce stigma and misconceptions.
- This practice may help to promulgate the use of ECT.
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