Some theories were, Neurotransmitter theory: The shock works like antidepressants, changing brain receptors to allow chemicals to flow like serotonin.
Anti-convalescent. Inducing seizures in hopes they will dampen abnormal brain function and stabilizing mood.
Neuroendocrine theory: Seizures cause chemicals to release that regulate mood.
Brain Damage Theory: The shock causes memory loss and disorientation while giving the illusion the problems are gone.
This was a barbaric practice because I'm sure they ruined more minds than they saved. Looking back there was such little knowledge and treatment known, this seemed like the best option.
My Grandmother is bipolar and received electric shock therapy, as I understand, of her own requesting. She wanted to be better like at one time I would have drilled a hole in my skull if it had a chance to help me no feel what I did.
Now it is called, deep brain stimulation. Where the electricity travels in ones body is more controlled as well as the patients who receive it. Studies show improvement in a majority of percentage of patients. Tests still need to be done but improvements and understanding of electricity helping people with mental illness is improving.
Electricity for mentally ill patients feels barbaric but there are possibilities for future understanding. When they started they knew nothing about the consequences, only the faith it would help some. Now they only use it in extreme cases, the research is growing and will one day be practiced daily.
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