Fourth of July Fireworks can Cause Stress for Veterans With PTSD

The Fourth of July will be here before we know it. One of the most common ways to celebrate the holiday is with fireworks. But not everyone looks forward to that portion of the festivities.

While celebrating July 4, please keep in mind that there might be people in the area that have a hard time dealing with fireworks being set off. For veterans that have PTSD, (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) the sound of fireworks can bring them back to the combat zone.

In an article on The Leaf-Chronicle, writer and Air Force veteran Sandy Britt explains why it can be very traumatic for soldiers to hear the loud bursts from the fireworks. She explains how the sounds of fireworks can trigger flashbacks, panic or anxiety attacks, and bursts of anger, to name only a few of the effects.

I know it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holiday and the pride we have for our country, but if you know there is a veteran in your area, you might want to reconsider setting off the fireworks. Especially if you know they have been in a combat situation. I can't begin to know what veterans who have been in combat have seen and heard, but I can only imagine the trauma they have from it.

Please think about the veterans and PTSD before you set off fireworks.

I just want to add a thank you to all those that have served and are currently serving. We are grateful and you are appreciated.

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