Hi...and welcome to Sober Recovery.First,let me say that I would take the suicidal behavior very seriously.Even if it were only a way of getting attention,he could do himself great harm.Some experts speculate that a large number of suicides are unintentional....that the person simply goes too far.Unfortunately,once they are gone,it is all but impossible to know whether they truly wanted to die.
In any case,the depth of despair that would cause such behavior certainly needs to be dealt with.Depression is highly treatable.I know,because I have experienced it.Thank God I got help.I have a delightful 10 year old son who needs me.
I'd suggest trying to get help for him.There should be a hotline for local help and information.Of course,any treatment will be more likely to succeed if he can get sober.That's something he'd need to want for himself for long term recovery to be possible.
And now,what about you?Are you involved in Al Anon in your area? We have an excellent Al Anon forum here.There is a lot of wonderful support available for you.Again..welcome
Hugs
phoenix