[pdkl95]

> Have you ever had someone close to you commit suicide?

Yes. My girlfriend who lived with me for several years.

> If so, is that truly a better outcome than undergoing ECT?

Yes, absolutely, for the reasons imperio59 and others have already described. You don't solve mental issues by injuring the brain until they the symptoms are no longer obvious to outside observers.

Also, using this type of emotional manipulation that presupposes the false dichotomy of "ECT or suicide" is highly offensive. There are many potential options, and you do not know what someone will do with or without any particular "treatment".