[Sarc]

Indeed a last resort.
My mother has suffered from mild depression off and on since my parent’s divorce nearly 20 years ago. Once her 10 year relationship with a very manipulative, svengali-like individual (finally) came to an end last year, she was alone and faced with the task of attempting reconnection with all of us. Consequently, her depression was at an all time high. It has been a tremendously difficult road; easily the hardest thing I’ve ever had to deal with. I had to put aside the years of hateful words and commentary directed to me and my family to get mom better. 2 hour phone calls every night, trying my best with what tools I have, talking her off the ledge so to speak were the norm for a solid 6 months.
She took a turn for the worse and landed in the local mental institution, and this time it looked like this was it. Early retirement, assisted living....if she survived. It was not looking good. I happened to be traveling abroad on business when my sister and bil (who are local to her) decided ECT was the way to go. I was angry for not being kept in the loop and terrified that my mom would never be the same. Stumbling on the video posted above helped ease my fears to a point.

I have to say that, thus far, ECT has been a godsend. I am an optimist at heart, but I certainly had no idea she would improve so much. My mom is her old self; outgoing, jovial, and is constantly challenging herself as she approaches 70. I still have reservations and concerns that she will revert back to the dark days, but I think a big component of its success is the support system in place after the procedure. One cannot have ECT performed, go home and sit all alone at home all day expecting a permanent fix. Social interaction and encouragement is extremely important, and we keep in constant contact and interaction to ensure she maintains her progress.

I hope your friend improves.