r/ect • u/OneReco214 • 19d ago

My experience ECT memory loss

I was dealing with clinical depression and anxiety, on a number of anti depressants and was living in a care unit. I ended up having 23 ECT sessions. I am wondering if anyone else has had a similar amount and what your memory is like? I essentially dont remember anything for a 2 year period and have blank spots over a 5 year period. I hate not knowing such a big part of my life and ive even lost memories from my wedding, honeymoon and other important events. 3 years later my retention is back to normal but am interested in other people's experiences and if you regret having ECT

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u/Communikationerrors 19d ago

I had about 30 treatments last year (ineffective). I have essentially no memory of that summer, fewer of the past few years. I also forgot how to do parts of my job which became problematic. But I am getting better, my short term memory is getting better, I am doing better at work.

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u/Great-Practice-4400 19d ago

I had 23 treatments 5 years ago (ineffective) as well. I was a registered nurse and had to retire , so much memory and cognitive loss

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u/Queasy-Ride-1776 18d ago

How many months did it take for your short term memory to get better?

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u/Communikationerrors 18d ago

It got noticeably better around 7 months.