Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Electroconvulsive Therapy Among Companions of Psychiatric Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study from Northern Iran, Rasht

Abstract

Background: Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a highly effective treatment for psychiatric disorders, particularly in emergency cases, pregnancy, and when pharmacological treatments are contraindicated. However, misconceptions and negative attitudes among patients’ companions can hinder its acceptance and adherence. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of companions of ECT recipients at Shafa Hospital in 2024.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among companions of psychiatric patients referred to Shafa Hospital in Rasht, Iran during 2024.

The data collection tool is a questionnaire measuring knowledge and attitudes related to ECT. The variables analyzed using mean, standard deviation (SD), frequency and a significance level of p<0.05 also 95% confidence interval.

Results: Of the 361 participants, 52.4% were male, and 47.6% were female, with a mean age of 47.91±12.02 years. Most companions (48.5%) received information about ECT from healthcare providers, while 22.7% relied on the internet. Concerns included memory loss (30.7%), brain damage (25.4%), and fear of anesthesia (22.5%). Despite these concerns, 69.3% believed ECT was beneficial for their patients. Companions with higher education levels or prior ECT experience exhibited more positive attitudes and greater knowledge.

Conclusion: The findings of this study reveal significant misconceptions and negative attitudes toward ECT among patients’ companions, which are characterized primarily by unfounded fears of memory loss and brain damage. Companions with higher education levels or prior ECT exposure demonstrated markedly more positive attitudes and greater knowledge. These findings underscore the necessity of structured educational interventions by healthcare providers to address misconceptions and to enhance ECT acceptance and treatment outcomes.