In simple terms, some patients are so unwell with depression they will either never get better or die from malnutrition/debilitation. This justifies the use of

In simple terms, some patients are so unwell with depression they will either never get better or die from malnutrition/debilitation. This justifies the use of ECT, which is conducted under very careful conditions, involving general anaesthesia. It is often effective in a very short time frame.