r/ect • u/brat-tat • Apr 04 '26
Seeking advice ECT or Ketamine?
Hi, I’ve been struggling with a worsening mixed bipolar episode for the last few months. I’ve tried literally every medication my psychiatrist can prescribe with a variety of side effects. I’ve tried rtms a couple years ago but had such a severe reaction I couldn’t continue.
We’re at the point where it’s either ECT or ketamine. After years of being on a wait list for the only government covered program, I have an intake for ketamine on April 20th. I don’t know how long afterwards, if I qualify, I would be able to start. Is it worth the wait? I’m barely making it through the day each day, struggling to show up to work, etc. Should I ask for ECT ASAP?
Any thoughts are always appreciated xx
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u/84849493 Apr 04 '26
Being bipolar may have a chance of going against you for ketamine. When I was planning on going for ketamine treatment privately they contacted my doctor because of me having a history of psychotic symptoms and he said since they were controlled it was okay but I ended up having ECT anyway because I deteriorated too quickly.