this is an extremely understandable feeling. we can call it manipulation, we can call it unfair, or we can call it out for what it is: a longing to be cared for. attention seeking behavior is just that: to seek attention. the world has put that in such a negative connotation but we all desire attention, love, care. feeling like we are lacking all of those things is of course going to lead to suicidal thoughts, and those suicidal desires might be quenched simply by receiving those things. it becomes a vicious cycle and whether or not you get caught up in that is not necessarily your fault.
of course i'm not saying you should go around and test people's boundaries and limits by threatening suicide. it doesn't sound like that is something you'd wan to do, anyway. but i'm more so commenting here to assure you that you don't need to beat yourself up on this one. it is truly so apparent how much you're guilting yourself for a very real, very valid thought process. i'd be lying if i said i didn't fantasize about people finally giving me some sympathy after revealing i was suicidal. it definitely is a temptation - one i've given into many a time before. i feel gross after but one thing i know for sure is this: i'm never not genuine when i discuss my feelings of suicide with others. i know the goal for me isn't manipulation but of sincere desire to be heard. and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that.