I have a grandson with Bipolar Disorder and it took 5 years for me to convence my daughter to have him seen to see if I was right. I read about it on the net and it discribed him so well that I would not let up on her till he was seen by a doctor. He is now being treated and seems to be doing pretty good with his meds.
I have found as you did that if you find something the child is interested in you feed that intreset and it helps the child blossem. These children need to be reminded constantly that they ars loved and needed at all times. Being needed is one thing they thrive on. They want and need this. It gives them a feeling of belonging. This seems to be a strong tool against the feelings os suiside. I know this helps with my grandson who just turned 14.