It’s only dated to the extent that they now use the politically correct term ECT instead of shock treatment (ST) Hotwater
i would think it would be completely illegal to use such a therapy without permission. but like i said, i read, i think in time magazine or something, that some people who were pretty hopeless opted FOR the treatment. intractible clinical depression or pain must be pretty freaking horrifying if people are choosing to have this done.
If they think it is necessary, it will be used against ones will. I have heard people saying that they have had it in the past and are wanting it again because it was the only thing that seemed to help.