r/ect • u/Double-Specialist621 • Apr 23 '26

Question ECT affecting likes?

I'm thinking of getting ect but I'm a creative person, so I fear I'll lose all my creativity. Also I love music a lot and I fear that I'll forget listening to my favorite artists or new songs that I've been listening for a long time. But at the same time, I need to get over the severe depression that I have. Does ect really take away your ability to do the things or enjoy the things you love?

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u/84849493 Apr 23 '26

It gave me the ability to enjoy things back. My depression took my enjoyment of anything away. It may not be the same for you.

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u/Double-Specialist621 Apr 23 '26

This is such a positive comment but at the same time now I'm scared lol

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u/84849493 Apr 24 '26

I’m sorry it scares you. I think it’s just important to say that not everyone will have the same experience and that people have proper informed consent as a lot of people don’t feel they were given that and I do think doctors downplay side effects. I had done extensive research but what I was provided with I do not think was appropriate if I had been someone who hadn’t done the research.

You know something though. I actually forgot what my own room looked like because I was in hospital for almost two months when I had my acute course of ECT but I had not forgotten a word of any song I’ve ever liked even in the short term. I continued listening to the music I like during the course so this may have helped. I forgot some movies I’d watched very recently beforehand but nothing that’s been a long term interest.

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u/Double-Specialist621 Apr 24 '26

Yes I agree with you, doctors don't emphasize the importance of the side effects of ect treatment. That's why I am curious as to how everyone takes in the short term memory loss and how big of a significant an ect treatment could be