ECT the Shocking Truth: How Psychiatry Turns Brain Damage into Treatment with Deborah Schwartzkopff, ECT Justice

In a revealing and emotional interview, retired trauma nurse and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) survivor Deborah Schwartzkopff shares the often-hidden dangers of ECT. Founder of ECT Justice, Deborah recounts her experience of being overmedicated and ultimately receiving ECT—a treatment she believes caused her lasting traumatic brain injury.

With the insight of both a patient and medical professional, she exposes the long-term physical and neurological harm ECT can inflict—harm that is frequently ignored or dismissed by psychiatric professionals. Deborah contrasts the supportive care given to victims of accidental electrical injuries with the lack of recognition and treatment for those harmed by ECT.

The conversation also raises critical concerns about gender bias, as women make up the majority of ECT recipients.

This eye-opening discussion is essential for anyone considering ECT or seeking to understand the broader issues surrounding psychiatric treatment. It’s a powerful call for informed consent, medical accountability, and greater support for survivors.