Which form of therapy is often used with clients experiencing severe depression and suicidal ideation?

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is often utilized for individuals suffering from severe depression and suicidal ideation, particularly when other treatments have proven ineffective or when a rapid response is needed. ECT involves inducing brief seizures in the brain through electrical stimulation, which has been shown to lead to significant improvement in depressive symptoms for some patients.

This method is particularly effective when there is a high risk of suicide, as it can work more quickly than traditional antidepressant medications or psychotherapy modalities. The neurobiological changes induced by ECT can provide relief from debilitating symptoms, making it a critical option in acute cases where immediate intervention is required to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient.

In contrast, other therapies like group therapy, mindfulness therapy, and supportive therapy may be beneficial for various aspects of mental health treatment but are generally less effective for treating severe depression with immediate suicide risk. These approaches may take longer to provide benefits, and their structure may not address the urgency required for someone in critical condition.