A procedure used in the treatment of severe depression, in which an electric current of 70 to 150 volts is briefly administered to a patient's head, is called _ therapy. A) transcranial magnetic stimulation (B) gene dissection (C) electroconvulsive (D) electric shock Question 10

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been around since the 1930s when it was first used to treat mental illnesses. Initially, the method faced controversy and stigma due to its dramatic nature, but over time, it has been refined to maximize benefits while minimizing discomfort, and is now considered a safe and effective treatment for severe depression, especially in patients who don't respond to other therapies. In terms of real-world application, ECT is often a life-saving intervention for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. It's typically performed in a controlled medical setting where the patient is given anesthesia and muscle relaxants to ensure their comfort during the procedure. Many patients report significant improvements in mood following a series of treatments, making ECT a vital tool in mental health care.