Although there is a lot of outdated information on this treatment, latest research has shown electroconvulsive therapy to be an effective means of helping people with severe depression. Essentially, this treatment consists of transmitting painless electrical impulses to the brain under anesthesia. Please note that there are some risks involved with the use of muscle relaxants and other side effects such as memory loss, confusion, and lingering mental fogs in some cases. However, if your loved one is healthy enough and their depression is severe, talk to your doctor to understand everything you can about this therapy.