Use of electroconvulsive therapy in young people

Background Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a controversial treatment for psychiatric disorders, particularly when it is administered to young people. Aims To assess how frequently ECT is administered to people under the age of 18 years in the UK, and why it is given. Method Electroconvulsive therapy clinics. private hospitals, adolescent units and UK members of the Royal College of Psychiatrists were surveyed to ask if they were aware of ECT being administered during 1996 to a young person under the age of 18 years. Consultants identified as having prescribed ECT were sent a follow up questionnaire. Results Twelve young people were identified as having received ECT; three were aged 15 years or younger and eight were female. Nine patients were rated as improved following ECT. The indications for its use were similar to those for adults. Conclusions Electroconvulsive therapy is rarely administered to young people in the UK. Declaration of interest Funded by the Department of Health.