ECT 6 Month Update

[@taylormcnamee3186]

Thanks so much for such a quick response! I am on my 11th bilateral ECT ..... thank you for such kind words about staying posotive! Seriously helps me tons! I wish you the best as well!!

[@christireynolds4925]

Jenny, thank you so much for sharing. Your story hits home for me in many ways, and I want you to know how much you are supporting others that are dealing with clinical depression and/or anxiety. You have so much loving support from all around. Be strong, and never feel that you are alone. xxoo

[@jennysectdiary]

Christi, that truly means the world to me. Thank you so much for your support and encouragement.

[@carsmasher]

Hi Jenny, I know how school can be stressful. You may want to go part time when you are ready. It took me 11 years to get a 4 year degree, but I did it. Don't give up, the light at the end of the tunnel is always there. When you are finally finished there will be such a feeling of accomplishment that nothing can compare with, even if you have to take a while to do it.

[@jennysectdiary]

Part time is probably a good idea. I'll have to look into it. Thank you so much for the encouraging words. Sometimes it feels like I'm never going to get there but hearing your experience gives me hope. I can imagine what a wonderful feeling it must be :)

[@carsmasher]

Jenny's ECT Diary I took one class a quarter for several years. That allowed me to keep a good GPA and still work full time. I felt a little out of place when I graduated, but when I heard the guest speaker I knew why I was there. You can do it, just take your time.

[@jennysectdiary]

carsmasher That was a really smart plan. I will probably look into something similar. I am very lucky that I am being supported financially by my husband so I could potentially decide not to work at all and go to school full time, but that idea doesn't sit well with me lol. I will have to think about it some more. Thank you for your advice and encouragement.

[@abnoot]

I ran across your channel and just want to say I'm really impressed with you and your project to document your journey. Unlike many others who comment, I have no idea what you are going through, but I wish you the best! Thank you for helping to spread understanding with these issues.

[@jennysectdiary]

Thank you so much, Sam. Your words are so encouraging. I really appreciate you taking the time to check out the videos and also for your interest in these issues. We need more people like you! Many times, those who have not experienced the illness themselves don't take the time to try and understand it. It really means a lot that you have. Thank you again!

[@fawal.1997]

It is nice to find people know how U feel , I am in senior year of high school and here in Egypt you can say " your whole life is depending on this year and you have to get high grades to go to respectable college " and it will be very effective on my life and getting through school and friends is just not that easy it used to be , anyway I am very grateful that you had made this video , it Really helps

[@melevonne]

So happy that you've done another update. I remember watching your videos months ago. I too started feeling depressed my sophomore year of high school. Trying my 8th anti depressant, but too considering ECT. College for me has been a struggle also. I feel like our experiences are SO very much similar. I've struggled with school and currently am having to drop classes and possibly get F's, it's affected my social encounters, etc. I hope things work out for you. It's difficult to get medication, going through ECT treatments, but still have that SAME type of thinking going on. I really wish the best for you. That habits and ways of thinking are hard to break, but you'll get there eventually.

[@jennysectdiary]

Thank you so much for your encouragement. I'm so sorry that things aren't going so well for you. It does sound like we're in very similar situations. I want to wish you the absolute best in your treatment. You will get through this. Things may seem very dark now, but there is hope and I know you will find it. Much love to you!

[@lumiatib3989]

Resolve is a rare thing. Leaving college requires a strong resolve which is admirable. I mean, I was raised into the wrong mentality that we had to be part of a system. Go to school, go to college, get a job....etc. And taking myself out of that mentality took a long time and a lot of struggle. In the end, I am able to see how wonderful this life is. Anyhow, what I want to remark is that, it is admirable that you have such resolve. You are admirable. Now, I also understand when you talk that this is a physical problem, it's not a mind problem. I have concurrent semi-cranial migraines. And a lot of people would tell me that it was not real, that it was psychosomatic, that there's not such thing as migraines. But, just like you said, it's not "mind" problem, it's my body that does it. Anyhow, great! I'm happy to have watched your video. Btw, what is your email?

[@ikaiyayin1686]

Jenny, Thank you for your videos they are really insightful. I've had psychotic depression and anxiety issues for the 7 years. I have tried tons of anti-depressants and none have worked. I've been given other meds and they worked but they were always short-term meds (valium & dexamphetamine). So now I'm left with ECT and Ketamine, as my only two options. Thanks for your vids.

[@jennysectdiary]

Thank you so much for your kind words. It really means a lot to me to hear that the videos have been able to help. I know how frustrating it is to feel as though you've taken every medication possible and nothing ever works. I wish you the absolute best on your continued treatment. Don't give up hope, you are going to find something that works, whether it be the ECT or the Ketamine.

[@tobyrackham600]

Hi there - just noticed your post and wanted to say hello. I'm starting ECT this Friday along with a Ketamine trial. How was it for you? And advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Toby

[@gregrhodes2171]

Same here. Ect was great and I thought it was all better. Two years later and I'm still recovering. Best to you.

[@Sara-yw1pb]

Dear Jenny , your blog has given me the courage to complete ECT for my drug resistant bipolar I disorder!! Thank You So much.... Sara

[@truthneeded3023]

Before you do that, check out ectjustice.org. Protect your brain. Too many things can go wrong. ECT causes brain damage.

[@jennysectdiary]

Thank you so much for your kind words. I would love to hear how things are going if you have the chance :)

[@juliamckennon9990]

You are an incredibly strong person!

[@centrifugalmuse]

Thank you for these videos. I'm a new subscriber to your channel and considering ECT. Your videos are helpful!

[@PthaloGreen2]

I'm sorry you're not doing as well as the last update; however, I'm glad you have a comeback strategy. I think you'll be fine again. Therapy sounds like a great idea to accompany your maintenance ECT. You're so far ahead of so many people in terms of addressing your depression, and I applaud you for your initiative in taking it your treatment seriously. Finally, thank you for sharing your experiences with us. There IS a dearth of first-hand ECT patient reports, and I truly appreciate your generously choosing to ignore this silly, silly taboo we have about talking about. It's a major help for people who are considering whether to give it a go. Please keep us posted. You're a wonderful spokesperson and I enjoy your articulate insights. Congrats on the wedding and kudos to your DH for being supportive of your health! One step at a time, you'll get there.

[@jennysectdiary]

You are so sweet! Thank you so much for your kind words. It truly means the world to me. It makes me so happy that these videos are able to help people with their decisions about treatment. And thank you for your encouragement. I will definitely continue to take it one step at a time, as hard as that can be haha. I will for sure continue to update. Thank you again so much!

[@PthaloGreen2]

Jenny's ECT Diary The phrase "one step at a time" reminds me of a now fairly "old" movie (to match 'fairly old' me! :-0 ) called "What About Bob" that might give you a laugh. In fact, maybe I'll try to watch it again--it's so old, it might be on IMDB somewhere for free. In any event, the movie, which is somewhat farcical but (I thought) inoffensive, stars Bill Murray as lovably nutty neurotic who goes to a psychiatrist, played by Richard Dreyfuss, to overcome whatever issues he's having. Dreyfuss's psychiatrist character tells him just to (semi-spoiler alert) read this self-help book he's written called "Baby Steps" which basically tells him to take things one step at a time and so forth. But Bill Murray develops an obsession with Dreyfuss and wants actual therapy, not just a book to read. Hilarity ensues. Again, it's sort of a farce, but I didn't find it terribly insulting to those of us with neuroses--especially since almost everyone fits in that category! It might give you a few laughs, since I found it hilarious. If we can't laugh about our mentally interesting states, we're in a heap of trouble!

[@jennysectdiary]

PthaloGreen2 I completely agree with your last statement! I'll be sure to check that movie out :) Thank you for the suggestion

[@tammycash170]

You are so brave! Thank you so very much for sharing your story! I have a friend that is going through the same thing ... Your story helps me to understand depression and ECT better so that I can support him through this tough time. God bless and all the very best to you always!

[@douggief1367]

ECT etc ,,, thanks Jennie ,,, very helpful.

[@andrewd.harris656]

I had electroshock in 2006 because I'd been severely contorted, I'd begun to correct my posturing, but I felt like electroshock would help. I checked into our university medical center and volunteered. It helped, but I didn't stay in the program regrettably. I've been to two different places since, but they used antipsychotics; I've gotten contorted again since, but I've started to correct it using exercises--I'm afraid not to go back for it because of my health. I've been severely inactive trying to hide. I'd survived a few murder attempts, violent ones in childhood. And I tried to hide again. I'd gone to school too. I have about 72 credit hours in the 3 hour weighted system. I went to two different schools out of embarrassment that I'd dropped out and been in the institutions. I hope everything goes well for you.

[@BlownupLightHeavy]

Wow sounds brutal Im going on 6 years of medication resistant depression A partial remission like you have had is all I ask for Good luck

[@LoLoCoSt224]

Hi Jenny, thanks for the update. I just had my 6th unilateral treatment this morning and still no response. I have to see my psychiatrist on 7th March to hopefully get approved for a round of bilateral treatments which I'm hoping will be more effective. I met a girl at the hospital last week who told me she had to go bilateral before the ECT started helping her, just like what happened with you. I think I'm probably another one who's going to need bilateral treatments. I'll get back to you after I've seen my psychiatrist to let you know if he's green-lighted me for bilateral. Take care, wishing you the best.

[@jennysectdiary]

Yes, please keep me updated if you can. I'm sure that they will approve you. Good luck with everything!

[@LoLoCoSt224]

Jenny's ECT Diary Hi Jenny, my psychiatrist has given me the green light for bilateral so it should be happening soon. I will try to remember to come back and give you an update on how I went but I can't promise anything cause I have no idea how much my memory will be impacted by the treatment. I've had absolutely zero noticeable effect on my memory from the unilateral treatments so hopefully that's a good sign that the bilateral treatments won't have too much of a negative effect on my memory. All the best. ;)

[@jennysectdiary]

Ungroomed Lover That is a good sign! Don't worry too much about the memory loss. It really doesn't affect your life in a major way. At least in my experience. Yeah, it's a little annoying, but it is completely worth it. Looking forward to your update (if you remember haha) best wishes and good luck!

[@LoLoCoSt224]

Jenny's ECT Diary Hi Jenny. Well I've had 6 bilaterals now and the effects were minimal and transient. I don't think I'll be having any more ECT as it doesn't look like it's going to be the wonder treatment for me that it is for some other people. I am grateful for the experience though, and this has definitely taught me that ECT is nothing to be afraid of and I may be able to help others with the knowledge I've gained through the experience. Cognitive side effects were very minimal too. The next step for me is probably an MAOI like Parnate or Nardil, with all the fun dietary restrictions that come with it. Best of luck to you Jenny. Take care. ;)

[@thirdeyedestiny1827]

Ive had it done too. I totally understand what is going on. Id love to have a talk with you on a few things you might find interesting . maybe we will learn something together Take care

[@unicornart5109]

Please give your ect treatment video

[@larshoneytoast8943]

I start ECT treatments in about 3 weeks.

[@machinamachima]

hi jenny, so sorry to hear things have been a bit up and down with school.. the therapy sounds like a great idea that way you don't have to shoulder the burden alone in regards to your mental health and coping back out there in the stressful world.. you are very brave and should be so proud! this was just attempt number one you will re group and come back stronger.. Thanks to your help i've started ECT.. I've just had Bilateral number 4.. they don't expect a response till say 5/6 and onward.. i even know of a woman who responded on number 12.. My memory so far is fine but sadly my mood appears to of got worse.. Did you notice things get worse before they got better with your ECT? and what number Bilateral did you start to feel something? thats if you don't mind answering! any help would be great as I'm feeling put out by increased anxiety and lower mood.. xhannahx

[@jennysectdiary]

Hi Hannah! Thank you so much for your sweet words. It is so encouraging to hear :) After I started bi temporal ECT, I would say the first 5-7 treatments, I was feeling just as bad or worse than when I started ECT. From what I have heard, this is a common occurrence. I've been meaning to do some research on that very subject, because looking back, I am very curious as to why that happened. When I do get around to it, I'll try and let you know what I find. I want to encourage you and tell you not to worry. It may take several more times before you feel anything positive. If you still feel like you're having problems after a significant number of times, try talking to your doctor about trying a new medication or even retrying one that hadn't worked before. The ECT changes your brain chemistry and medications that might not have worked before could have an affect now. I started feeling the effects of ECT after about 8 bi temporal treatments. While I did feel better, I knew I wasn't where I should be. I started taking a medication that hadn't worked before and it has made all the difference. I go into the details about it in my 3 month update video but if you need clarification on anything or have any questions, just let me know! Don't give up hope. You are going to figure out what works for you. Please keep me updated if you can. Best wishes in everything

[@rickyaguirre8]

you're #1! you're going to be fine again! if you have some good days (if it goes from bad to good) then it means your mind can stay good permanently jenny! jenny! jenny! jenny! woooooooo!

[@jennysectdiary]

thank you so much, you're so sweet :)

[@johnkelly5491]

Thank god

[@jjb7687]

I know how you feel. I've been battling depression for most of my life and been on many medications. I'm now on lamitcal. Depression is really horrible illness. Are you in any support group? supports group, whether online, etc, can be helpful. Hang in there.

[@jennysectdiary]

Thank you so much for your encouragement. I am currently looking to possibly join a support group. Thank you for the suggestion. I wish you the best in your treatment and continued recovery.

[@jjb7687]

I'm glad you're looking for a support group. I'm part of an online group which offers support for depression sufferers. It great to relate to others who understand the struggles I faced due to this illness. I hope you are able to find a supportive group as well. Best of luck.

[@taylormcnamee3186]

How are you feeling?? After doing it for a while is it really obvious for you when your starting to feel better?? I just got done with my i think 9th or 10th bilateral session and now am on a break for 6 days then starting unilateral..... im not gonna lie i dont feel all that much different..... other then i forget a lot of stuff lol. I dont know if im just being difficult or if its not working...... this is really tuff for me to figure out!

[@jennysectdiary]

I didn't start to feel a difference until about my 12th treatment, but even then, I needed to make adjustments to medications. Don't worry about not feeling anything yet. For some people, it does take more treatments. Talk to your doctor about your options. Don't give up hope! Everything is going to be okay. I wish you the best.

[@jennysectdiary]

Tiberius Montenegro Hi! So I was just going to reply to your comment, but for some reason KZbin wouldn't let me. Anyways, my email is [e-mail]. Write me anytime! Thank you so much for your kind words. Your encouragement means a lot to me. I wish you the best :)

[@janicekhan882]

jesus

[@mr.e1220]

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