Paris Jackson describes painful electroconvulsive therapy after near-suicide attempts

Paris Jackson revealed on a podcast that she completed nine electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) sessions within three weeks as part of her battle with depression after narrowly avoiding suicide. She described the process as involving general anesthesia, a hospital gown, restraints, a bite guard and electric currents, which produced intense head pain, lingering soreness and periods of amnesia. While she acknowledged ECT’s effectiveness in promoting neuroplasticity, she rejected the idea of monthly maintenance shocks for life, preferring a combination of treatments and holistic health strategies.

Prior to ECT, Jackson cycled through multiple medications, five treatment facilities, CBD, dialectical behavior therapy, EMDR and a trial of transcranial magnetic stimulation that only eased her OCD. She now works with a behavioral specialist and continues talk therapy, emphasizing integration of lessons to prevent relapse. The singer also reminded listeners of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for anyone in need.