Suicide on the job......

[JakeLock]

I need to withdraw myself from this thread, I understand that I haveupset people and this was not my intent, I apologize for that. I will PM each of you when I'm calm enough to try to explain what I mean, but this whole thing just upsets me to much to post a thread about it. I'm sorry I'm balling my eyes out it's just to close to me I'm sorry.,

Edit: I guess I went against my own signature...

[deputywave]

I can't imagine what would cause someone to attempt or commit suicide. I think maybe we get desensitzed by those who make attempts, in order to gain sympathy or as a cry for help.

I do know what suicide does to those left behind. My dad took his life. I was 2 years old. It still affects me, some 30+ years later. My only memories of my dad are things I've been told. My mom struggled with the responsibility of raising 2 children by herself. I can remember, as I grew older, thinking how selfish my dad had been. He took the easy way out and left us to struggle.

Later in life, I learned more of what had happened. My dad had become very angry and violent towards my mom. None of my family believes that he was of his right mind. It was a tough time and apparently the pressures became too much. In some ways, I'm not so sure it wasn't a selfless act instead of a selfish act.

[chiefhuntr]

Jake,

Your PM was heartfelt and well received. You are forgiven. By me at least.

Chief

[kels]

I got your email and understand what you are saying.

I dont think anyone was chewing on you. (not very hard, anyway)
I would say it more a difference of opinion.

As you have found out, this is a very touchy subject.

While everything seems to be written in black and white when you are younger,
you will find as you age, there is a lot more gray area between the two.

Rest easy, someday you will understand why the term grouchy old men is a compliment :D

[FuzzPup]

I am a little disturbed after reading two different instances of suicide by members of Law Enforcement. The first case was of a young sheriff who took his life after being on the force for 3 years. He and two other units arrived at a call and the young man remained outside in his patrol car. When the two came out they found him dead, a self-inflicted wound. He left no note, and as the department can recall, he was not under any investigation.

The other case was of a Police Chief, who did the same, but this one was presumed suicidal prior to the chase which led into another county.

I want to know, other than problems at home, why would one do this, what causes one to snap and make such irrational decisions. I can understand one may be pressured at home to leave this type of work even after claiming they understand the nature of the job, infidelity issues on either side, money problems, and problems on the job which could lead up to imprisonment and fines; what I don't get is if nothing like the source exists, what is the motive?:confused:

I am shocked that you are disturbed by the number considering it is the second highest rated profession for suicide. more of it out there than folks know of.

[kazz]

I want to know . .

:confused:

Depression is the main cause and males are more likely to pull the pin than seek help. We take action while females mainly talk.

I know over 20 cops I've worked with who've gone out early, one was female and the rest were blokes.

Our Dept has just linked up with Beyondblue ~ a recent study in Australia has depression over represented in LEO's compared to the general public. Shift work, lack of exercise, poor diet, traumatic incidents, all these things can contribute to the reason. There is no ONE cause of depression, but for a lot of people, it's like the ONE straw that broke the camel's back, if you know what I mean.

People who suffer from depression can dig themselves a hole if left untreated, their thought process gets confused and they see no way out. We mask these fears, just as alcoholics mask their drinking. There is a link between both illnesses, but what came first, the chicken or the egg.

I think if we can increase the awareness of depression, someone who is suffering from it may recognise it and seek help. The help that is out there is just awesome.

Keep well.

[kazz]

I am shocked that you are disturbed by the number considering it is the second highest rated profession for suicide. more of it out there than folks know of.

I think "we" are very clever at hiding our true feelings, we turn off then one day the switch doesn't work and you can't turn it off. All those incidents come flooding back. The ones we think we have buried.

I think this is a very valuable thread, one worth exploring.

I know some of you will be cringing and some will be upset, it will bring back painful memories of some person you knew who took this option. I'm sorry for your angst, but talking about it does help. Well, in my opinion any way.

BTW ~ if you wish to flame me, be my guest, I'm a big boy and have thick skin.

:D