PAX Centurion - Winter 2016 - 2017

www.bppa.org PAX CENTURION • Winter 2016-2017 • Page 33 Loneliness and depression: silent killers By Mark A. Bruno O nce again, the holiday season is upon us. For most of us, it is a time of joyful family gatherings and getting together with friends. We are grateful to have just made it through another year, a year which we hope was uneventful, devoid of any tragedy. It is time to give thanks and well wishes to those who matter in our lives. We need to be gracious and humble to God for any good blessings we may have received throughout the year. Unfortunately, we are not always blessed with easy times. It may have been a hectic year with no relief in sight, a free-fall into a downward spiral with nothing to latch onto to stop it. I’m sure at one time we have all had moments like this. Unfortunately, some of us cannot process the upheaval as well as others. For some, the glass is perpetually half empty. We see this too often in our profession, which is already filled with stress by virtue of what we do. We see it in the faces of those who may be suffering like this, but asking for help is never really an option. Instead, they attempt to weather the storm by themselves. They may be too ashamed or proud to ask for help, figuring everyone will know their business. We often find that loneliness and depression begin to settle in and these can be silent killers. We certainly have the means to end our pain and suffering at any given moment. Such is the case for many who have worked beside us over the years. Most recently, we lost former Boston Police Officer, Joseph Behnke. Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife and children. Joe was a good guy and friend to all who knew him. Acouple of bad breaks can alter your life forever and you never recover from them. On the surface, all may seem well; what lies beneath can be a different story altogether. In the end, we find we’ve lost another good friend who’s found themself in a dark place with nowhere to go. I ask that we all take a good look around and watch out for those who are vulnerable. We have--what I believe is second to none--a Peer Support Unit (617-343-5175 Emergency 617-594-9091). The staff on this unit is well trained in helping those who are in the depths of despair. Sometimes, all it takes is a person to listen to what is going on in our lives. Just a sympathetic ear who won’t judge us, who will help to find some answers. They are also there for retirees and all family members that ask for help. It cost you nothing and is always confidential. This selfless staff want nothing but to help and will come to you if need be. Please utilize them if you are feeling overcome with stress or anxiety. Please call anonymously for a friend if you think they need help; you may be saving their life. THE BOSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT PEER SUPPORT UNIT We are a peer-driven support program for police officers and their families. Our program is completely confidential and is available to ALL police officers and their families. Group or individual help with handling family and life issues, alcohol, drugs, anger and domestic issues. Referral for specialist as needed. 251 River Street, Mattapan, MA 02126 Office: 617-343-5175 (M-F 9 am-5 pm) Off-Hours, On-Call Peer Counselor: 617-594-9091 Sometimes even WE need a little help from our friends! Eire Pub 795 Adams Street Dorchester, MA 02124