VIMHS
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society
A cultural history of shock treatment
A cultural history of shock treatment
A cultural history of shock treatment
Sunday 24th November 2024
Journalist Sandy Ernest Allan explores the history and controversy of electroconvulsive therapy, inspired by his uncle's mental health journey.
57 minutes
Informative
Compassionate
Honest
Eye-opening
Thought-provoking
About this podcast
Author:
VIMHS
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Community & Support Networks
Policy & Advocacy
Body & Mind
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
203 (View all)
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!The Controversial History of Electroshock Therapy
Episode Overview
- Sandy Ernest Allan's career was inspired by his uncle's autobiography.
- Allan's latest work focuses on the history and controversy of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
- ECT is used to treat severe depression but carries significant risks.
- The episode examines cultural depictions of ECT in media.
- Allan advocates for a more informed and compassionate approach to mental health care.
I had an uncle who assigned me to write a book about his life.
Fifteen years ago, Sandy Ernest Allan's life took an unexpected turn when he received a 60-page, typewritten autobiography from his reclusive uncle, Bob. This manuscript, detailing Bob's schizophrenia diagnosis and time in a mental hospital, inspired Allan to pursue a career as a mental health journalist. In this episode of People First Radio, Allan discusses his latest work—a comprehensive cultural history of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), commonly known as electroshock therapy.
Allan's journey into this controversial topic began with his uncle's story and has since expanded to include interviews with self-identified shock survivors and extensive research into the history and cultural depictions of ECT. Allan explores the complex and often contentious debates surrounding the use of ECT, which is used to treat severe depression when other treatments have failed.
He delves into the scientific, historical, and cultural aspects of the therapy, highlighting the significant risks and the lack of comprehensive studies on its long-term effects. The episode also touches on the portrayal of ECT in media and its impact on public perception. Allan shares his findings and personal reflections, offering a nuanced perspective on this polarising treatment.
He emphasises the importance of listening to all voices in the conversation, including those who have had both positive and negative experiences with ECT. By examining the broader implications of mental health care and the role of treatments like ECT, Allan encourages a more informed and compassionate approach to mental health issues. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the complexities of mental health treatment and the ongoing debates about ECT.