The Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Handbook provides detailed guidance and should be used in conjunction with PD2026_010 Practice requirements for electroconvulsive therapy services which outlines mandatory practice requirements for ECT services.
The Handbook provides a comprehensive overview of ECT as part of the modern toolkit of therapies for mental illness.
The Handbook describes each element of the treatment pathway: indications for ECT, risks of treatment, consent and legal issues, and administration of ECT. It also includes information regarding facility requirements, treatment preparation, anesthesia and service coordination.
Section 13.4 and 15.2, and Appendix 6 were updated on 5 August 2026.