Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a highly effective treatment option mainly in severe depression. ECTs longterm effects on cognitive function are currently unknown, limiting its use. Transcranial magnet stimulation (TMS), is considered less effective than ECT in treatment of severe depression, but is without cognitive side effects. TMS is studied to a less degree than ECT.

There is a need of large scale studies of effect, side effects and patients’ subjective experience of ECT and TMS.

Generate data to better predict which patients will benefit from ECT and TMS by establishing a regional register including all patients referred to ECT and TMS as part of an ordinary clinical treatment practice in the western part of Norway.

All patients referred to ECT and TMS in Bergen and Stavanger will be asked to participate in the study. There are no exclusion criteria. Demographics and course of illness factors will be recorded before start of ECT. Severity of the depressive disorder and treatment effects will be evaluated with a mix of self evaluation and clinician administrated standardized rating instruments. There will be a follow up at 6 months. Date from the described register will be merged with other relevant central Norwegian health registers.

We expect the described regional register to offer an opportunity to determine predictors for effect, side effects and subjective satisfaction of the treatments.

This register is investigator initiated, with the aim to investigate which patient will benefit from ECT and TMS without serious side effects.