Mindfulness Based CT and ECT

Question 1

What is mindfulness?

Answer 1

Paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and non judgementally

Question 2

What is the core skill of MBCT?

Answer 2

At times of potential relapse, to recognise and disengage from mind States characterised by self perpetuating patterns of ruminative, negative thought

Question 3

What are the core aims of MBCT?

Answer 3

To help people who have suffered from depression in the past to learn skills to prevent relapse
To become more aware of bodily sensations, feelings and thoughts, moment to moment
To help participants develop a different way of relating to sensations, thoughts and feelings - specifically mindful acceptance and acknowledgement of unwanted thoughts and feelings
To help participants to choose the most skilful response to unpleasant experience

Question 4

When is ECT used?

Answer 4

Severe depression
Depression with psychosis
When other treatments have not been successful
Unable to tolerate antidepressants
Previous good response
Urgency (risk of suicide or death)
Mania, schizophrenia, catatonia, epilepsy, Parkinson’s

Question 5

Describe the procedure for ECT

Answer 5

Brief square wave pulses
Seizure threshold
Stimulus dosing by titration 
Short GA and muscle relaxant
Seizure monitored by EEG
Twice per week, 6-12 treatments

Question 6

List some of the side effects of ECT

Answer 6

Retrograde and anterograde amnesias
Headache
Muscle pain
Confusion, nausea, vertigo