> Electroconvulsive therapy uses much larger electric shocks but, administered safely by a clinic, is extremely safe, has relatively minor side effects Blame "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" for its inaccurate portrayal.

YMMV. I’ve encountered people who have had ECT forced on them whilst inadequately sedated. They have been older/elderly but it would be a mistake assuming it’s always without causing harm.

That does sound rough. The initial shock, without sedation, could cause mild to moderate pain and would certainly be a scary experience.

Even then, though, it's a far cry from being the antiquated mental lobotomy that many people wrongly assume it to be.