The 4th of July should be a day for all Americans to celebrate our nation’s birthday.
But for some people, especially our American heroes, celebratory traditions like setting off fireworks can be mentally and emotionally tough.
As detailed in a 2020 blog post from the University of Pennsylvania Medical News, research has shown that fireworks can trigger symptoms of PTSD.
What is PTSD? Symptoms that occur after experiencing a traumatic event
Veterans may struggle with these celebrations because the explosives are usually set off at night, producing bright flashes and loud noises at irregular intervals.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Christopher Scuderi, a Florida family physician and former Navy officer, offered some tips to help PTSD sufferers prepare for sudden, loud noises this Independence Day.
Independence Day will be celebrated with fireworks at the Empire State Building in New York City on July 4, 2023. (Fatih Aktas/Anadolu Agency)
Here are four.
1. Talk to your neighbors
PTSD sufferers should ask their neighbors if they plan to set off fireworks, so they aren’t caught off guard when they do, Scuderi said.
Dr. Tony Brooks, a military veteran from Everett, Washington, also encouraged this “simple human conversation” in a previous interview with Fox News Digital.
Talking to neighbors about fireworks plans could provide emotional comfort to veterans, experts say. (iStock)
He encouraged anyone planning to set off fireworks to feel free to bring up the topic in conversation.
This step provides an opportunity for others to voice concerns without forcing them to confess things they would prefer to keep private.
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Brooks said veterans who have issues with fireworks are likely to speak up if fireworks are mentioned, even if the response is simply, “I don’t like fireworks.”
2. Prepare
For veterans who are indoors, Scuderi recommended darkening rooms and using ear protection such as foam earplugs or noise-canceling headphones while fireworks are being set off.
“Before the holidays, make sure you have self-care items in your home that will help you feel calm when exposed to loud noises,” he advised.
One expert suggested using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones during fireworks. (iStock)
For people planning to go out at night, Scuderi recommends having a designated driver in case a triggering event occurs.
3. Practice relaxation techniques
During stressful times, Scuderi says it’s helpful to have self-soothing techniques at hand.
This could include deep-breathing exercises to calm the nervous system and other mindfulness techniques such as mindful eating, which involves “all of the senses – the sight, smell and feel of the food,” Scuderi said.
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“The 5-4-3-2-1 sensory training can help re-center the mind,” the doctor said.
“What are five things you can say about yourself, five things you can see, four things you can hear, three things you can feel, two things you can smell, and one thing that is good or that you are grateful for?”
Experts said practicing mindfulness and breathing exercises during large fireworks can be helpful. (iStock)
Scuderi also recommended practicing positive self-talk.
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“Just remembering that you’re in a safe zone helps,” he said.
“Accept your emotions, [fireworks] It’s an amazing thing for everyone and I hope you’re all safe.”
4. Cool your body
During particularly hot summer months, Scuderi recommends taking cool showers or applying ice or a bag of frozen vegetables to your skin to help lower your body temperature.
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“[This] “It may help ease symptoms that trigger PTSD,” he said.
A vendor sells American flags to spectators waiting for the Independence Day fireworks display to begin at the Washington Monument on July 4, 2022 in Washington, DC. (Nathan Howard)
Brooks said not all people with PTSD are the same, and many veterans enjoy watching Fourth of July fireworks.
For veterans struggling with symptoms, Scuderi suggested reaching out to VA resources like the VA crisis line at 1-800-273-8255 or the PTSD Coach mobile app.
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“Or talk to your doctor about treatment options,” he added.
