Where to go from here.

Its only normal to feel that way after 18 or so years. With the 3 current LEO shootings it make us all wonder why we do what we do and question our mortality. Some of the suggestions listed above are great, have you also considered a vacation, just get away and relax and think about all the great things in your life and not the daily departmental B/S.

Its east for all of us to tell you these things, but once its all said and done and you can retire, its sure nice seeing that pension every month.

Hang in there and don't do anything drastic. Please write back, as you see there are several of us who really do care.

A wise man once said, "work to live, NOT live to work." This fact is especially true in what we do every day. We all know those that identify themselves by their profession and love to tout "who" they are. This is definitely a recipie for disaster.

Confide in some of your bros, and when you 56, talk this crap out. Din't hold it in, cause it will rot you from the inside. With just the support you have from these keystrokes, just imagine what you will receive when you talk to some of your co-workers that you trust. It feels good to get this crap off your chest, and remember, do not let any of this sh*t get to you personally.

Hang in there, cause we feel ya. I know I do.

i also have been on the job for a little over 18 years and i have 17 months left until i can retire from the department i'm with. I can only say to you, i'm taking it day by day and i can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Go to work, do what you do best and go home to your family. Whatever you haven't done in this career by now, it probably won't get done. Don't worry about the things you can't change or control, only do what you have control of and let everythign else take care of itself.

God be with you.

Well I've made a decision about the way I feel about the job. I do not feel I can continue to work in the job and provide the service that I would expect from myself as an LEO. (So everyone is clear I am not depressed, suicidal or in any way a loose cannon).

I have become more and more grumpy in the last few months, snapping at the family from time to time. If you knew me you would never be able to tell but I hate coming to work every single day. I think everyone has a limit on what they go through and I have reached mine.

I realize I am not superman, I can't stop crime single handed and I don't want to continue to try. I thank everyone for their suggestions, I have tried different things within agencies, I have tried a vaction. Just time to move on and try a new challenge. Thanks for the prayers most of all.

Well I've made a decision about the way I feel about the job. I do not feel I can continue to work in the job and provide the service that I would expect from myself as an LEO. (So everyone is clear I am not depressed, suicidal or in any way a loose cannon).

I have become more and more grumpy in the last few months, snapping at the family from time to time. If you knew me you would never be able to tell but I hate coming to work every single day. I think everyone has a limit on what they go through and I have reached mine.

I realize I am not superman, I can't stop crime single handed and I don't want to continue to try. I thank everyone for their suggestions, I have tried different things within agencies, I have tried a vaction. Just time to move on and try a new challenge. Thanks for the prayers most of all.

LOTS OF PRAYERS FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTY.

I worked the job over 30 years. changed departments 3 times. Same thing just different people. I would definetly go see Bill Garrison. He is a great guy and totally understands LEO's problems. All in All it is a great job and your personal attitude has everything to do with how you handle your stress. Your family, friends, and others close to you must be number one in your life. You must talk with someone or it will only get worse. Life is worth living, look for the positive things around you each day. Believe me, sometimes change is good... but only you can make that decision. Be sure to include someone who is close to you in your thoughts. Get things in perspective before its to late... you owe it to yourself and family.
Seriously... go see Bill Garrison... from a former LEO in Dade County with family in Sebring.
If you need to talk with someone let me know, and I will call you. Thats how important this is.

Hey Bro,

You have made a decision to move on!! I would encourage you to keep your standards active, and take a break from it.

I applaud you for realizing you are burned out and moving on. There are so many that hang around and become slugs, safety liablilites and eventually morale killers.

Good luck in your future endeavors!!!