Journal of Mental Health Nursing & Statistics

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE ON ELECTROCONVULSIVE THERAPY (ECT) AMONG CAREGIVERS OF MENTALLY ILL CLIENTS

Divya R Kammath1*, Dr. Starmine C

divyakammath1983@gmail.com

Electroconvulsive Therapy; caregiver knowledge; mental illness; stigma; psychoeducation; cross-sectional study

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) remains one of the most effective treatments for severe and treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Despite advancements that have made ECT safe and well-tolerated, persistent stigma, myths, and misinformation have contributed to low acceptance rates, especially among caregivers who play a pivotal role in treatment decisions. Understanding caregivers knowledge of ECT is therefore essential for improving mental health outcomes and reducing stigma. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge regarding Electroconvulsive Therapy among caregivers of mentally ill clients and to determine its association with selected sociodemographic variables. A descriptive crosssectional study was conducted among 30 caregivers of mentally ill patients admitted to the psychiatric wards of M.O.S.C. Medical Mission Hospital, Kolenchery, Ernakulam district, Kerala. Participants were selected using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured socio-demographic proforma and a 15- item ECT knowledge assessment scale. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Chi-square/Fisher’s exact test. Among the caregivers, 16.7% had demonstrated poor knowledge, 30% had moderate knowledge, 33.3% had good knowledge, and 20% excellent knowledge regarding ECT. Although most of caregivers possessed moderate to good knowledge, but statistical analysis revealed no significant association between caregivers’ knowledge levelS and sociodemographic variables such as age, gender, education, relationship to the patient, or prior awareness of ECT (p > 0.05). This underscores the need for structured programs within psychiatric settings to enhance caregiver understanding, dispel myths, and promote informed acceptance of ECT