Electroconvulsive therapy research in BRICS and G7 countries: a bibliometric analysis from 2005 to 2024

Abstract Objectives: Over the last 2 decades, global mental health challenges have significantly increased, drawing attention to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a potential remedy for serious mental conditions. This article aimed to examine the patterns of collaboration networks, publication dynamics, and key areas of ECT research in BRICS and G7 nations. Methods: Through bibliometric evaluation, this study analyzed publication volume, collaboration networks, keyword burst detection, and citation patterns of 3595 articles published between 2005 and 2024, from the Web of Science Core Collection database, published between 2005 and 2024. The analysis focused on outputs from BRICS and G7 countries and was limited to publications in English. The descriptive analytics, network visualization, and burst detection techniques were used. Results: Findings showed a notable surge in ECT-focused publications post-2015, signaling a heightened worldwide interest in mental health. Analysis of keyword trends identified 3 pivotal stages in ECT research evolution: initial concerns over ECT’s efficacy and safety, broadening of its application scope, and the recent refinement of treatment methodologies alongside the formulation of international guidelines. Examination of collaborative networks underscored dense interconnections among G7 nations, in stark contrast to the more localized collaborations within BRICS. Conclusions: This study provides critical insights into the global research landscape of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) among BRICS and G7 nations. The findings emphasize the growing importance of ECT as a treatment for severe mental disorders, particularly in light of the ongoing global mental health crisis. Future studies is needed to compare ECT with emerging therapies, personalize treatment outcomes, and expand to underrepresented populations to further enhance the efficacy and accessibility of ECT worldwide.