Friday, January 30, 2009

Area 4 Detective Dies

By his own hand.

Ladies and Gents, we can't emphasize it enough.

Call someone. Call anyone. Partners, supervisor, chaplains, EAP directly. No matter how bad it gets, no matter what pressure you're under, there is help available.

RIP Detective.

Prayers and well wishes only. All other comments will be deleted.

Labels:

85 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

SCC good post. It cannot be stressed enough. I think all of us with some time on this job can recall a brother or sister that committed suicide.
Rest in peace DC we luv ya man.

1/30/2009 12:43:00 AM  
Blogger leomemorial said...

I love you guys. B safe

HUGS

1/30/2009 12:45:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Totally agree. How many of us has said, 'if only I'd known' when we hear this same sad news time after time?

May he find peace.

1/30/2009 12:48:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dave, your choice to go pal. I wish things would not have appeared so bleak. You were a hell of a good man and we'll miss you. I hope that the next life brings you peace and your children's understanding. Good Journey

1/30/2009 01:13:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I've addressed this issue before, here and elsewhere. Nine years ago I was finally diagnosed with Major Depression. Of course some on the job made comments, even recently here on the blog. But I know of many officers I've helped by speaking open about this. My name is Sergeant Dennis O'Brien and I work days in the sixth district. If you feel you may need help but are afraid how it will effect your status with the department, you're concerned about taking medication, whatever you need to talk about, call me. Depression is a disease not an emotion. Circumstances do not cause suicide untreated depression does. Untreated depression makes it impossible to cope with the circumstances that everyone thinks caused the suicide. I've lived through it all, I survived, I will go to hell and back to help you, just call...

1/30/2009 01:15:00 AM  
Blogger kateykakes said...

My heartfelt sympathies go out to all of you at the CPD and to the Detective's family. I'm so sorry for your loss.

May he R.I.P. :(

1/30/2009 01:18:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

God Bless this Officer's family and friend. May the Lord show mercy up on his soul.

1/30/2009 01:31:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

People if somethings bothering you Get help ask the other guys and gals around the station


ask the doc or the chaplains Do something

Nothing is worth this

1/30/2009 01:41:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

A Federal Agent committed suicide on Jan 23, 2009 by jumping in front of the Metra train in Palatine.

There is always help available, just reach out.

1/30/2009 01:42:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Very Sad... RIP Detective

1/30/2009 01:57:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Rest In Peace Detective. You are with the angels.

1/30/2009 02:46:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

God speed det. may you r.i.p my prayers to the family left behind may god bless u in your time of need.

1/30/2009 03:57:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

RIP Office...

1/30/2009 05:40:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey all, only saying this cause I'm drunk. But this is true, I kept my gun at the station for about 2 months because I was having some pretty bad thoughts towards myself. I'm still not out of the clear, but I called EAP and they really helped me. I already forget what the point was, but please, remember this, those feelings are more of a chemical f'up going on in your head. You know you are a great person. Look at most of these mo'fo we work for, you are a way better person than them. So If you know your a good person, just extend your hand and someone will grab. I'm better at giving advise than acting on my own advise, but I know its the truth. So Please! Ask for help! And anyone laughing at me, fine, that probably means that you are doing good in life and have no idea what I went through or what this detective went through. I do ask you be there for other PO's though. And if you actually want to help. I will tell you this, just having one person come up to me and say,"hey ---n, how are things going (and seem to mean it) really helped to get me through the day. When I left my partner I knew he had no idea the anguish that laid ahead of me that night, also not that it was his fault, he never really asked. I have seen some truths on this job that would make the devil blush, but with your help I can get through this. Thank You for listening!

1/30/2009 06:06:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

It can't be said enough; call SOMEONE. You would be surprised how many fellow coppers have gone through bad times only to come out of it because they found someone, a partner, fellow officer, ANYONE on this job that has gone through the same thing.

Knowing that there are others out there that have had gone through a similar situation is I think the best therapy you could go through. Just knowing that and seeing that they made it through is a tremendous help.

My prayers go out to this Detectives family and friends.

1/30/2009 06:44:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Good guy. Shit like this never makes sense.

1/30/2009 07:01:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I've addressed this issue before, here and elsewhere. Nine years ago I was finally diagnosed with Major Depression. Of course some on the job made comments, even recently here on the blog. But I know of many officers I've helped by speaking open about this. My name is Sergeant Dennis O'Brien and I work days in the sixth district. If you feel you may need help but are afraid how it will effect your status with the department, you're concerned about taking medication, whatever you need to talk about, call me. Depression is a disease not an emotion. Circumstances do not cause suicide untreated depression does. Untreated depression makes it impossible to cope with the circumstances that everyone thinks caused the suicide. I've lived through it all, I survived, I will go to hell and back to help you, just call...

1/30/2009 01:15:00 AM

Thanks Sgt. It takes a REAL man to come on here and say what you did about yourself. I agree that everyone that needs help so seek it out. If you REALLY knew your partner, then you would know if something isn't right. In the old days when the shit got tough people just drank more. But it has been proven that drinking will only make the situation worst. If you care about you fellow worker, go with him/her to go get the help that is needed. Be there for them, listen, help they with the courage that they need to seek this help. Trust me the person will thank you later for what you did for them. Police are always saying that "I got my partners back whatever it is" Well if you do then help them get the help they need. And be there with them and for them.

Stay safe out there guys. And WATCH each others back.

1/30/2009 08:10:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

And if you're uncertain about talking to a counselor-you can also call EAP and ask to talk to a Peer Support Officer- other officers like yourself-who have volunteered to get some training to help out other cops- they are bound under the same confidentiality code as licensed counselors. 24/7, someone will call you back and help you out.

get help some where, please!

1/30/2009 08:17:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

RIP Dave; you were one of the best! I spoke with him about a month ago, and I know of at least one other friend who had spoken with him not too much after I did. He stated that he was "going through some changes", but made no statements that would lead me or anyone else to think he was going to take his own life. Stick together folks, talk with each other regularly, and don;t be afarid to recommend people to go to the EAP. God Speed, DC. You will be missed

1/30/2009 08:36:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dave we will miss you

1/30/2009 08:36:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Just a quick message. There is always help. No matter how much we rip on each other or don't like each other at time, we are still a family. Family always sticks together. I'm not a religious man but whatever is out there, I hope he finds peace somehow. My love and heart goes out to the family for their loss.

1/30/2009 08:37:00 AM  
Blogger Elm Creek Smith said...

My condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

ECS

1/30/2009 08:45:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I thought I was tough enough and could handle anything that came my way. I was not my 20 year marriage was ending and I could not stop it. Then all of the victims faces came back to me and I came ever so close to ending it. I reached out to the person I was talking to and she saved my life. It's been two years now and I am doing better, no one on the job knows because of the good front I can put up but I know and I know I'm getting better.

I used to say I was weak comming and talking to her but then I said it was the toughest thing I had to do and I wasn't a quiter.

Go now and find some of that inner peace we all need.

1/30/2009 09:11:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To Sergeant Dennis O'Brien, 2nd Watch. 006th District:

I have never met you, but when I do I am going to shake your hand and thank you for having the courage to post your story along with your name.

YOU are what defines courage and we need more guys like you on this job.

My hat goes off to you!

RIP Dave.

1/30/2009 10:14:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

And anyone laughing at me, fine, that probably means that you are doing good in life and have no idea what I went through or what this detective went through.

___________________________________

No one’s laughing. This job does some bad things to your mind. We have to deal with the scum below the rotting sh*t that no one cares about, deal with the politics, and all the other associated BS and get sh*t on every day in the papers.

I’ve gone through some serious sh*t and thought about doing it too, but got help.

1/30/2009 11:00:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Rest easy brother.

Cicero PD

1/30/2009 11:02:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

God speed Brother, and all of us must look out for each other!

1/30/2009 11:37:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

You have to think about yourself and your family. Help is out there, get it if you must. We pay into our health insurance, use it. Forget about what other people may think of you, fuck them, they don’t have to know anything. Everyone is perfect when it comes to judging others. The first one to talk shit is "never the one that messes up or needs help". Whether its depression, anxiety or any other personal issues you need help with, seek medical attention. Don’t wait ill it’s too late. In the long run it will make you a better person, which is the most important thing to begin with. Folks what we do everyday out there in the street is only a job and it should not run our lives. Ourselves, family and friends should matter the most, and not what the department wants. Forget what others think, they are not the ones that have to walk in your shoes everyday.

God bless the family of the officer.

1/30/2009 11:43:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

what a shame! rip detective. much respect to the sgt! a true man. esp in this day and age of ball busting etc. god bless all!

1/30/2009 12:10:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I thank God for my partner every day. She has been an angel to me for without I dont know what I would do. To "A"ngel you are what keeps me going when things get heavy and I think I have nothing left. Thank You from my heart. To anyone who feels as though you will be ridiculed by your peers dont be, remember God gives us only what he knows we can handle. Although my partner doesnt believe in a higher being, she need only look in a mirror to know it was that being who sent her to work with me and be there for me during a tough time. She has her own problems but is never more than a phone call away. I wish everyone had a partner like her. Thanks for your friendship means oceans to me. I know I can be very stubborn and difficult I cant thank you enough and WILL LIGHT A CANDLE FOR YOU. : D

1/30/2009 12:20:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Not to derail anyone from reaching out but eap is not confidential. Sorry to say it but it is the absolute truth. If u call them, the eap people in your district find out and some are stupid enough to confront u. When it happened to me, I was really mad and I was so happy I did not say too much when I called.

Thanks Sgt D.O. From 006. Will definitely keep your offer in mind.

1/30/2009 12:34:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

R.I.P. Det. Dave, thanks for all you contributed to keeping our City and our Society Safe, by putting the Evil Ones in Prison. You did your job well and are a credit to the Dept.

All readers please understand that you cannot always tell how stressed you really are, as Stress does not reveal itself like you think it does, with a big lightbulb that goes off in your head. It is Not dealt with properly by the Dept; which basically just exaserbates it more due to the phony goings on all the time, and the Greed of its Supervisors and others who can never get enough, while others can't progress due to the sham politics of the Dept. The politicians don't care if you're overworked and can't pay your bills, they are the evil ones, and are too busy stealing even more of your money, or thinking of ways to do it. This coupled with family life problems, age related health issues, drinking, etc; is a recipe for disaster. Please get help even if you think you just only might think you need it. None of this CPD related political nonsense is worth it, if it results in this. It's in the end only just another fucked up job now, like so many others, only with much more stress than realized. Get help brother and sister officers, if you feel you may need it, and once again, RIP brother officer, you will always be with your CPD family..

1/30/2009 12:36:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I did not know this man...but my prayers go out to him and his family. God Bless You Office.

1/30/2009 01:19:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

God bless Sgt. O'Brien. His strength is my pillar. Thanks for helping me.

1/30/2009 01:20:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

taking care of one's self doesn't mean just getting off the shift in one piece.

one can only guess at the demons that cause one to think the best solution to whatever problems one has is to be dead.

may god bless his family and bring them peace.

1/30/2009 01:21:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Rip Office!

1/30/2009 01:33:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To Sgt OBrien and the other officer that shared his personal story: you are brave men. You are strong and compassionate for having told of your tough times. It is an honor to share your profession. You both expressed concern that some would criticize your words. I truly believe that you are mistaken and if I'm not, I'd like to say to would be critics: you are soulless and as much of a drain on humanity as those we lock up for preying upon each other. Good luck to all that feel alone- you are NOT. There is a huge support system here. Please reach out. RIP Detective.

1/30/2009 02:00:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

"My name is Sergeant Dennis O'Brien and I work days in the sixth district. If you feel you may need help but are afraid how it will effect your status with the department, you're concerned about taking medication, whatever you need to talk about, call me. Depression is a disease not an emotion. Circumstances do not cause suicide untreated depression does. Untreated depression makes it impossible to cope with the circumstances that everyone thinks caused the suicide. I've lived through it all, I survived, I will go to hell and back to help you, just call..."


It's nice to know there are people like yourself out there who are willing to make sacrifices to help a fellow officer in need of help.

May God Bless you and yours, always. :-)

1/30/2009 02:37:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

some of the best people in the world are our co-workers. they are born helpers. let them help. they are good at it. prayers to that detective and his family. they will never understand perhaps but please forgive him.

1/30/2009 03:35:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I didnt know the detective in question, but god bless him and many thanks to him for all he did for chicago.

1/30/2009 04:34:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dave was a good man. We all wrestle with our demons, most of us are just luckier than some to beat them (demons). May the ever understanding Lord welcome you home.

Former A/4 Det.

1/30/2009 04:35:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

RE:Sergeant Dennis O'Brien

You SIR are a Gem of a man making your statement.

This is not the 1950' and 60' officers. Get help my brothers and sisters.

Depression is the common cold of mental illness. Nothing more. There are so many officer's that took the step and sought help. I must say this "Fuck all you J.O.'s that make fun out of someone taking A.D.'s"

A few years ago, I stopped a copper's from doing himself in the locker room. Yes, I tricked him out to a good boss. Today, This fine copper is doing well.

In my long years on the CPD I heard of too-too many self inflicted deaths.

Remeber,depression can happen to anyone ! Drinking is not the answer and you will end up in a box.

My prayers are with our brother, Dennis, and anyone else that suffer's from depression.

God bless you all.

1/30/2009 04:39:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Things in my life have been very hard to deal with, especially in the past month or so. I know I have friends I can talk to and have shoulders to lean on. It took a lot of strength to just ask someone to listen, but you cant bottle up your emotions, it will only eat at your conscience. Someone out there is fighting a tougher battle, but no one needs to fight alone. Talk to your friends, family, fellow officers, EAP, ANYONE!! We all have ears to listen, a shoulder to cry on, and some heart strings that need to be tugged on. Remember, nobody needs to think they are in this alone.

RIP office. Prayers go out to the family. May God give you the strength to get through this difficult time.

1/30/2009 06:17:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

anyone know date for his services

1/30/2009 06:35:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

That poster in the station is right. It says that getting help doesn't make you weak, it makes you smart. We have to stand together and we can help each other. Just talk to somebody. Your partner, Peer support, the EAP to name a few. It really is one for all. We have to remember that.

1/30/2009 06:58:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What happened was horrible and my prayer go out to the family and friends. I pray God has him at peace.
I was that bad about 10 years ago and no matter how much you love your family or how much you know its going to hurt them, you still want to do it. Thinking about the pain you're going to cause makes you feel even worse. It is such a mental mind F*#$ and so incredible how stupid shit can make you feel so awful and helpless.
STOP saying call someone!!! Talking does not help everyone and admitting you feel so depressed you want to kill yourself is shameful! If I had been able to make that sensible decision to call somone or talk about it, I would have healed a lot sooner and probably never contemplated suicide, but I could't. I was scared, embarrassed and ashamed. I didn't think there was anyting that could make me feel better.

What helped me was my friends and hitting rock bottom. I eventually realized I was lonely, depressed and vulnerable because I kept focusing on the negative things that consumed me every minute of everyday.
My friends were vital because although they never knew how bad I was, thier love and attention made me snap out of it. It took over a year to realized how screwed up I was and I could not believe that I let my problems cause me to put such little value on my life. My friends spent time with me and thank God that my pain in the ass family continued to be loving and sticking thier noses in my life. Their continual attention and not taking no for an answer was vital and crucial to my recovery and stepping back into reality. I am 100% better now and I look back at that awful time and cannot believe I was so deep in that dark place that I could see no other way out.

My only advise is please don't wait until you see a problem, be a loving friend, be a loving family member cause deep down inisde we respect you and need you to bring us back from that darkness. We need your interventon long before we head down that road of no return. I know everyone is busy, I know people have thier own lives but somone that feels loved and needed and keeps busy does not have the time or energy to contemplate such a horrible act.

1/30/2009 07:03:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To those of us who know Sgt. Dennis O'Brien personally, he is a kind, decent and caring human being and police officer. God Bless you Dennis. They broke the mold when they made you! Please, brothers and sisters in blue, reach out and talk to someone. You are not alone.

1/30/2009 08:04:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

My heartfelt condolences to the Detective's family and friends. RIP..

1/30/2009 08:08:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Unfortunately this loss of a brother hurts us all in so many ways. My family extends our prayers to the officer's family. No words can ease your pain. Please know that we are sorry for your loss..
May he find peace.

1/30/2009 08:09:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Please Don't be stubborn and get help. I had depression hit me and I had no idea what was going on. Before this happened I thought it only happened to "Weak" people. Boy was I wrong. Thank God I had Family who recognizes what i was going through and helped me. If not for them I know I would not be here today. I am not leaving my name because the Dept has no idea what I went through. I was able to hide it from my co-workers. Maybe someday I will come forward but I am not there yet. God Bless and stay safe.

1/30/2009 08:30:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

May His Loved One's,Somehow, Someway,Sometime, find peace.
This is my prayer.

1/30/2009 09:09:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

"Circumstances do not cause suicide untreated depression does. Untreated depression makes it impossible to cope with the circumstances that everyone thinks caused suicide."

1/30/2009 01:15:00 AM

Well said, Sergeant O'Brien. Thanks for the post.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and partners of the detective. God bless you all.

1/30/2009 09:11:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dave was an instructor in the Academy in the early '90's. He was always a good guy. RIP. May your memory be eternal.

1/30/2009 09:17:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I also went to EAP and found it very helpful. I told them all - except that I'd actually considered a double murder-suicide. I was afraid to mention that and the officers that helped me get pass it because work has always been the best therapy for me and I was afraid the EAP/Department might take me off the street. I've been fine since - with the exception of a girlfriend who often gets on the wrong nerve.

1/30/2009 09:41:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

This is so sad, I do not know this Officer, I'm just so sorry he felt that he had no other choice. May god bless him and his dear family. Also Thank You Sarg. I'm sure you will be helping those in need.....God Bless You! "Please if you are in need, call the good Sarg."

1/30/2009 09:43:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dennis, we go way back to 009, you have always been a great person, always. Thanks.
My heart hurts for our brother in blue. Stick together, and start helping each other, please.

1/30/2009 09:49:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Please reach out. Help WILL BE THERE!!!!!

1/30/2009 09:55:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

"Not to derail anyone from reaching out but eap is not confidential. Sorry to say it but it is the absolute truth. If u call them, the eap people in your district find out and some are stupid enough to confront u. When it happened to me, I was really mad and I was so happy I did not say too much when I called."

Think you're getting EAP & Peer Support confused. HEPA Laws prohibit EAP from divulging information. Might want to get your story straight before you make erroneous statements

1/30/2009 10:18:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Rest in peace detective.

1/30/2009 10:22:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

God rest his soul! Sgt. O'Brien from your fellow officers in 6, thanks for letting us know you are there. to anyone that needs help just stop and talk to anyone...you would be amazed how much all of us have thought or felt the same. As a peer supporter in 006 I smile and great everyone because you never know if that person just needs to know someone cares or may listen.

1/30/2009 10:52:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Rest in Peace, Detective. God Bless those that he left behind.

We do have good insurance. My co-pay is only $15 a session. I go once a week so, $60 a month. I feel way better and my blood pressure is down.

Here is a good place to start.

http://therapists.psychologytoday.com/rms/state/Illinois.html

1/30/2009 11:01:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dave was my homeroom instructor. loved his family. I'll miss you buddy boy. You made a real impression on my career. RIP

1/30/2009 11:03:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

R.I.P Office and God Bless Your Family

I'd also like to say hello to Sgt. Dennis O'Brien. I worked with him when he was a P.O. in the 8th Dist. and I'd like to say he is a wonderful person who is very compassionate & a true gentleman. If anyone needs to talk please take him up on his offer as I know he will keep your conversation in strict confidence. God Bless You Dennis and your family.

1/30/2009 11:18:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

He will be missed. Keep your heads up. Thing will get better. RIP Detective.

1/30/2009 11:20:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To Sergeant Dennis O'Brien and all who are reading. Thank you for being stand up and up front. I am a Police Officer and an alcoholic. It is a problem that has plagued me, my family and partners for many years. I have had so many tragedies and made many mistakes through out the years while drinking. That in itself will cause depression.
There is help available. If you feel that life has become unmanigable, please reach out and seek help. Once you have made that step, it is amazing how you will feel. There is still a lot to fix and things don't come easy, but it will seem easier, if that makes any sense.
A concerned P.O.

1/30/2009 11:27:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

"Not to derail anyone from reaching out but eap is not confidential. Sorry to say it but it is the absolute truth. If u call them, the eap people in your district find out and some are stupid enough to confront u. When it happened to me, I was really mad and I was so happy I did not say too much when I called."
-----------------------------

Yeah I think ya got some things confused.I went to the EAP about 4 yrs ago and it was the best thing that could have ever happened to me.No one except the men/women in those rooms know anything about your problems.I too was skeptical about the program..worried the job would find out or anyone for that matter.But it took a good friend and my own self to accept defeat and realized i needed help.I have been sober 4 yrs and live a much better life without the thoughts of suicide and despair.I believe what you say happened..happened but I do not believe it had anything to do with the EAP.
R.I.P. Detective

1/30/2009 11:46:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

What did he teach in the academy?

1/31/2009 12:52:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Regarding Sgt. O'Brien:

I met you only a few months ago through a mutual friend.

Your personal story of your recent loss, coupled with your kindness and courage touched me very much that the following day, I told my peers about the "this cop I met."

There's an old saying that says not all of us can be heroes; some of us have to sit on the curb and cheer while you go by.

Sgt. O'Brien, I am cheering you tonight.

To the other officers, have faith and if you don't have any at the moment, fake it and GO GET HELP.

1/31/2009 01:37:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I wish the family great strength for the hardship they will endure the next months or so. Their struggle and burden of the unanswered questions with the addition of helplessness and guilt whilst suffering a great loss.

Dennis keep being you!! You're awesome!!! Dennis is truly a compassionate and caring human being who wears his heart on his sleeve. Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Sincere. He is truly being genuine in his offer, as this is not the first time he's put his story out there. Keep being Great!!!

1/31/2009 01:44:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I think most depressed people don't want to call or reach out to anyone. There is a feeling of isolation and hopelessness and not everyone has family they can turn to anymore. Sometimes just being kind is the greatest thing you can do.

1/31/2009 02:32:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

May this Detective rest in peace. God is more forgiving, loving and understanding then we could possible ever imagine or know. My prayer is that you now know this.

To those brothers and sisters in blue who are left behind: Please remember that suicide is permanent solution to a temporary problem. Call someone. Don't feel you are alone.

1/31/2009 03:04:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am so sorry to hear this. I am out of country and retired. Without printing the detectives name, would someone mind printing his initials? I can then search the internet/obits for the next few days. Thank you.

1/31/2009 03:39:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I to attempted suicide earlier this year, and I called for help before it was to late. It's true, you never know what a person is going thru and how much pain they may be in. I to, was diagnosed with depression and went thru months of counseling, which did a world of good and enabled me to notice my stressors. Just because one does not APPEAR to be sick dose't mean they aren't. So sad that this detective felt that there was NO ONE to reach out to. I pray for his soul, and I pray for those he left behind, for they to will need help in sorting this all out. Remember, we must look out for one another! Depression is a very real illness and must be addressed, no matter the severity.

1/31/2009 07:52:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

RIP Detective and may God bless your family.

Thank you Sgt. O'Brien, it is people like you that make me proud to be a Chicago Police Officer. May God bless you and all the men and women in blue.

1/31/2009 09:37:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

R.I.P. Detective you will be missed, I too lost a good friend and fellow officer to suicide as well. Nothing is as bad as it seems, help is always here and available. My condolences to the family you are in my prayers. Signed, a 006th District Police Officer

1/31/2009 10:56:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

My primarycare physician and I were talking about my coping with a series of health setbacks the last few years.

He suggested maybe my taking some medication for depression.

I was skeptical. Afraid of the employer finding out during a "whiz quiz" etc.

My doctor replied, "I think about 30% of your profession are on anti-depressants.You should consider it."

Look around roll call. That's 3 in 10 folks.

Still thinking it over.

1/31/2009 12:33:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Saint Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray;
and do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host -
by the Divine Power of God -
cast into hell, satan and all the evil spirits,
who roam throughout the world seeking the ruin of souls.

Amen.

God Bless Dave and his family. May he rest in peace.

1/31/2009 05:56:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

My doctor replied, "I think about 30% of your profession are on anti-depressants.You should consider it."

Look around roll call. That's 3 in 10 folks.

Still thinking it over.
----------------------

It's a tough decision no doubt but when needed, these medications work quite well. May I suggest you speak to a Psychiatrist for advise on which medication. If you were having issues with your heart you'd be referred to a Cardiologist, Cancer then an Oncologist, ect.. The Brain is the most complex organ in the human body and perhaps the most complex computer in the world. When the need arises you seek the advice of an expert.. Feel free to call me or write me (sgtobie@aol.com)about any concerns or questions you may have..My understanding of Department Policy is only Anti-psychotic medications are forbidden. EAP will answer questions about specific medications even if you wish to remain anonymous.. I take anti-depressants every day and I have no problem stating so here for the world to see. Call or write...
And to this detective's Family, no one but other survivors of suicide know your pain and anguish. Please take some comfort in knowing it was an illness which took him and not anything anyone did or didn't do nor anything he'd have done had he not been terribly ill. We are much more in the infancy stages of understanding and dealing with this illness then are we with illnesses like AIDS, Cancer, and so on..Seek help and support anywhere you can find it..Know many of us are praying for you and your loved one. I knew him from the academy and thought highly of him. God Bless..

O'Brien
006

2/01/2009 01:39:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

"Remember God gives us only what he knows we can handle."

--1/30/2009 12:20:00 PM

Well, yeah...but there are days when I wish He wouldn't trust me so much!

[grin]

2/01/2009 02:41:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

"I am a Police Officer and an alcoholic. It is a problem that has plagued me, my family and partners for many years. I have had so many tragedies and made many mistakes through out the years while drinking. There is help available. If you feel that life has become unmanigable, please reach out and seek help. Once you have made that step, it is amazing how you will feel."

--1/30/2009 11:27:00 PM

This is the simple truth, simply put forward. I have over 25 years sober in AA, and I will let everyone in on the big secret I learned --

"You don't have to do that anymore if you don't want to."

If you are honestly "sick and tired of being sick and tired," welcome, friend. Come in and get a cup of coffee and sit with us. You can just listen if you want. Glad to have you. If you don't quite like one meeting, try another. Just "keep coming back."

Don't get help to save your job or marriage or family or to please someone else. Take care of yourself first -- and these other things will fall into place as you go along.

"One Day At A Time..."

2500 meetings a week all over the city and suburbs! For detailed info, go to --

http://www.chicagoaa.org/

God bless all here.

2/01/2009 03:09:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Rest In Peace..

2/01/2009 03:54:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of this good man. Sgt. O' Brien You sir are a very decent human being and one that this department needs dearly.
A few years ago I reached out to the EAP and I was told right from the start that everything is confidential unless you tell them your planning on doing yourself or someone else harm. In fairness could you 19 Paul a statement like that from another copper?
My drinking and depression continued until I reached out. Yes I got tricked out by another copper who in turn reached out to two great bosses. I got the help I needed. It was the best thing anybody has ever done for me on or off the job. Today every aspect of my life is so much better.
I promise you this. If you have a problem and reach out do the things your told, every day will get better.
Rest in Peace Detective.

2/01/2009 06:05:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Sometimes that pain is GREATER than love or life itself. I was seriously hurt on this job. I survived the incident, but was overwhelmed by the emotional pain that followed. I thought many times of ending my life, just to have some peace. I avoided my friends and family, afraid of another comment that would only hurt me more. I reached out and by talking to a Therapist, I do believe I saved my life. I am past that point now and grateful to still be here. I owe a great deal to that person who saved me...DO reach out...maybe someone not connected to this department or family, but to someone who is trained and compassionate enough to help...I did.

2/03/2009 05:30:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I have pressed someone I care about very much to go to counseling . . . even offering to go together. That person will probably will never forgive me for bringing it to the attention of the department when things got bad. I had to walk away but I pray all the time. When something is not right, its not right and you should reach out to and listen to the people in your life who want the best for you.

2/06/2009 10:47:00 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Had a real hard time dealing with my dad's terminal cancer diagnosis; doc put me on Zoloft. Wonderful depression drug and NOT ADDICTIVE!! Made all the difference in the world. Was on it during and for a while after dad passed. Wouldn't be here otherwise. There's no shame in this game. ASK!!!

5/30/2009 06:55:00 AM  

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