Page 13 - June 2017 Newsletter

ThirdVice President’s Report
Some startling numbers
The month of May has concluded, and many members have attended numerous memorials, from local and state events to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. As we begin the summer months, let’s take a look at some of the data from 2016. In 2016, there were 145 line-of- duty deaths. By comparison, 108 officers died by suicide.
According to an article on the Law Officer website, an average of ten police officers commit suicide every month across the country. The overwhelming majority use their handguns. It’s estimated that as many as 15 to 18 percent of law enforcement personnel are suffering from symp- toms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and de- pression, which often go hand in hand. There is always a possibility that, in addition to encountering a potential suicide among the public, you could find yourself facing the same situation with an actively suicidal, armed com- rade.
The above numbers are very unsettling, and I would not be surprised to hear that many of you have been per- sonally touched by either an officer or someone you know that has committed suicide. The biggest unanswered question is, “Why?” and unfortunately, we the survivors
will never be able to find true closure to our losses. What we can do is be the ears for someone who is hurting. We may not have the exact skill set as a licensed professional, but we each possess the ability to listen.
There are countless resources where we can refer an officer or friend. The department offers Peer Support, as well as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). I have personally witnessed (via social media) complete strang- ers offering their phone numbers to any officer who is hurting, allowing the officer an ear, perhaps an ear that has been through similar events and may provide a more positive solution. This kind of support is what is needed to have an effect on that second statistic.
While even one suicide is one too many, we must do everything we can to reduce the numbers. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800 273-TALK, is a 24-hour service. There is even an online chat option, should the member prefer to communicate via keyboard (https:// suicidepreventionlifeline.org).
The memories of those who have gone before us stay with us forever, not just in the month of May. If I can ever be the ear for a fellow officer in need, please don’t hesitate to call me at 773-416-2704.
Stay safe! d
JAY RYAN
CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ JUNE 2017 13