I've got more information from the CAA's psychiatric specialist regarding depression and ECT. It seems that
1. ECT is not a reason for witholding a medical certificate per se - it may however act as a marker for the severity of depression
2. Severe depression may be a reason for witholding/delaying certification if
a) it is part of a manic-depressive type ill ness
b) if it is recurrent
c) if there are psychotic features (hallucinations, delusions etc)
d) if there is a family history of manic depression
e) if it is "out of the blue" ie no clear precipitating life events
As someone who has had severe depression and ECT I have now been officially told I can be granted Class 1 and 2 JAR medical certificates, I thought I would share this info.
Finally it appears that the CAA are very willing to consider each person and case on their merits - they have been very helpful to me. Hope they are for you!
[This message has been edited by Byron (edited 01 December 2000).]