Refractory mania and inability to consent: an important role for involuntary ECT

Abstract

We present the case of a 23-year-old man with a first episode of severe mania, which was refractory to pharmacotherapy. The case demonstrates a rapid response and full recovery after the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The ECT was administered involuntarily under Section 59(1) (b) of the Irish Mental Health Act 2001 as the patient was unable to consent to the treatment. The case highlights the benefits of ECT for this serious condition and emphasises the importance of retaining the legislative capacity to provide such an effective treatment for patients unable to consent because of severe psychotic illness.