ISDB involves potentially punitive risk taking not rationally connected to positive achievement. ISDB is a readily available behavioral option for emotionally disturbed police officers, since risk taking is often part of the job. The risk taking becomes ISDB for police officers when it is compulsive and associated with depression. ISDB is risk taking not rationally related to the achievement of policing goals. Other characteristics of the suicidal officer are unexpressed high dependency needs, low self-esteem, and social isolation. Signs of suicidal intent are the making of a will, giving away personal items, and overt instances of ISDB. Treatment for a suicidal officer should include support and affection from family and friends along with professional crisis intervention that helps the suicidal officer think rationally about coping with stress and problems, developing more effective adaptive strategies, and improving social relationships. Police agencies should obtain the services of a mental health professional skilled in identifying suicidal persons and in performing crisis intervention on their behalf. 23 references.