A century-old treatment, once called electroshock therapy, has baffled experts in psychiatry and neuroscience – until now. The riddle might just have been solved by UC San Diego researchers who’ve been studying why electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) gives great results for severe depression.
New research suggests that ECT works by magnifying a particular kind of electric activity in the brain called aperiodic activity. This brain activity doesn’t have a regular pattern and it’s often thought of as mere background noise in the brain.
“It feels like you’ve cracked a riddle that’s baffled scientists for ages,” acknowledged Sydney Smith, a PhD candidate at UC San Diego. “Not only are we unraveling the puzzle of ECT but also bringing one of the most effective yet misunderstood treatments for severe depression into clear focus.”
Despite an impressive success rate—up to 80% in treating depression—ECT gets bad press due to antiquated media portrayals. In contrast, recent ECT is performed with controlled doses of electricity under anesthetic, which is miles away from the extreme scenarios shown in films.
Even though it’s proven effective, ECT has drawbacks such as short-lived confusion and cognitive problems, not to mention multiple trips to the outpatient department—a deterrent for some possible beneficiaries.
“While many find it simpler to just pop a pill, ECT is crucial for those that conventional medication fails,” remarked Bradley Voytek, PhD, a professor at UC San Diego. “Knowing how it works could optimize its benefits and lessen the side effects.” Understanding how ECT works allows for more depression treatment options.
Using EEG scans, increased aperiodic activity was noticed after ECT and another treatment using magnetic seizure therapy. This activity, once brushed aside as background noise, appears to play a key role in bringing the brain back to its normal functioning state in individuals suffering from depression.
Aperiodic activity strengthens the calming function in the brain.
“Distinct signs of slowed brain activity were observed in EEG scans of ECT recipients, an anomaly that until now was unexplained,” noted Smith. “This is in sync with the calming results of aperiodic activity and indicates that both therapies generate similar responses in the brain.”
While these outcomes connect aperiodic activity to the advantages of ECT, more research is needed to incorporate these understandings into other forms of depression treatment. The aim is to enhance efficiency and lessen side effects.
“Essentially, the effectiveness of the treatment matters the most,” Voytek said. “However, being scientists, our duty is to delve deep into how the brain behaves during these treatments, to maximize their positive effects while minimizing any negative impact.”
Peter Zafirides, MD
Central Ohio Behavioral Medicine
PSYCHIATRY
COLUMBUS, OHIO
If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression do not take these symptoms lightly. The earlier you get help, the quicker you can find healing, because your symptoms truly can get better. Working with our psychiatrists is a proven path for dealing with such concerns. Contact us to talk about getting you the help you need and deserve.
