Introduction:

Despite the usefulness of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), its use is avoided by several population groups.

Objectives:

To explore and describe, from the point of view of psychiatrists, non-psychiatrists and the community in general, knowledge, practices and attitudes regarding ECT.

Materials and methods:

Focus group study in which a thematic analysis of the interviews was made.

Results:

The general population seems to have different opinions, mostly negative, and little knowledge on this regard mainly influenced by the film industry. ECT treatment is always the last option, but it could be more considered if more information is provided. Although physicians show interest in learning about ECT, they report that they have not received training in this topic and are unaware of the progress on the subject. Knowledge, practices and attitudes of psychiatrists depend on the level of experience and contact with ECT, because, even though they know about its existence, most do not use it or recommend it.

Conclusion:

Practices and attitudes regarding ECT in the studied populations vary according to the experiences and knowledge of this procedure.

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