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In 1996 I had 19 ECT treatments.  Despite studies to the contrary, ECT did affect me long-term.  My ability to do math (accounting was part of my job at that time) was suddenly gone.  At times I couldn't remember which symbol was the plus sign on my calculator.  I couldn't add 7 + 3 in my head.  And it lasted for about 10 years, only very slowly improving over that time.  It meant I lost my job and was not able to do a number of other jobs, like using a cash register.  And still, I cannot do any multiplication or division w/o a calculator.   For years, I counseled everyone considering ECT to NOT have it done.  But now I have reconsidered.  When I had ECT, I was suicidal at the time and had already attempted suicide 3 times.  ECT wiped out bad memories for a while so that my life was probably saved by it.  It gave me some space/time to have a mental vacation from my problems.    No, it didn't stop the depression -- that didn't occur for another 8 years.  But now I do think it was the right treatment for me.  Look at expert information online.  Go to sites where consumers comment on it and where you can ask questions.  But most of all, confer with your doctor and ask him any questions you have, and if you trust him, go ahead with it.     Also, I have not had any "booster" ECT sessions since 1996.  But if severe depression occured again, I would certainly consider doing so.   Carolyn