Hi, Amanda,
There's little I can add to the wisdom of Pelican's and Bernadette's responses.
If your mother truly wanted to kill herself, surely she would have done so by now. There are ways to ensure successful suicide. Rather, she knows (and I'm not saying she is doing it consciously) that if she makes the dramatic gesture she will immediately have your full attention and devotion.
In reality, of course, she is holding you hostage.
And alcoholism IS hereditary to some extent, so I second the idea of AA for yourself and Al-Anon for the relationship with your mom. I'm in AA, and I have been in Al-Anon to deal with my relationship with alcoholics in my life.
Hugs, life can look much better in recovery!