Montana VA Health Care System encourages people to consider veterans and the impacts of fireworks on those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) before they light them this July Fourth holiday.
Many people are not aware that a July Fourth celebration could affect others, and a conversation is the simplest way to start that awareness and support people with PTSD.
“The Fourth of July can be a difficult time for our nation’s heroes because the sounds, smells and shockwaves of fireworks can create sights, sounds and smells that can activate flashbacks, nightmares and anxiety,” said Executive Director Duane Gill. “Every Montanan can and should help veterans with PTSD avoid surprise fireworks.”
Gill encouraged all Montanans, and especially non-veterans, to be thoughtful July Fourth of veterans who may be their neighbors.
People are also reading…
For veterans who have PTSD, these tips and resources can help:
- If fireworks impact you, reach out to your loved ones and support systems. Let them know that you will need them to check in and be there for you.
- Veterans who receive their health care from MTVAHCS can call 406-447-6000 to speak with a counselor on coping mechanisms, anxiety, flashbacks and any other mental health support.
- Veterans in crisis and those concerned about them can call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (press 1) to talk with qualified responders or visit veteranscrisisline.net.
- Veterans experiencing PTSD can access a free app on their smartphones called PTSD Coach, which includes coping mechanisms for PTSD.
- Earplugs, headphones and white noise machines can help block out the noise of fireworks.
- Consider heading out of town to quieter places or where fireworks are not allowed.
- More information and resources on PTSD is available at https://ptsd.va.gov.
Montana VA Health Care System serves over 49,000 enrolled veterans across Montana. Veterans are cared for by a staff of 1,400 at 18 sites of care across the state.
