A Review of the Impact of Electroconvulsive Therapy on Short-Term Memory in Patients with Mood Disorders

This paper examines the impact of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on short-term memory in patients with mood disorders. ECT, which involves inducing a brief seizure through the application of electrical currents to the brain, is considered one of the most effective treatments for severe mood disorders. It is typically employed when other treatment options, such as psychotherapy or medication, have proven ineffective or when individuals exhibit severe symptoms. This treatment may be associated with cognitive side effects, particularly in the domain of short-term memory. Mood disorders are a category of mental health conditions that affect an individual's emotional state. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and significantly impair quality of life and functional capacity. This literature review found that individuals with severe mood disorders who undergo electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may experience impairments in recall and processing of new information following treatment. However, these cognitive changes are often temporary and tend to improve over time.

کلیدواژه ها:

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) ، Mood disorders ، Short-term memory ، Cognitive impairment ، Neurocognitive effects ، Psychiatric treatment