On the 4th of July, all Americans should celebrate their country's birthday.
But for some, especially American heroes, festive traditions like setting off fireworks can be mentally and emotionally taxing.
Research has shown that fireworks can trigger PTSD symptoms, as described in a 2020 blog post published by Penn Medicine News.
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Because the explosives are usually detonated at night, with bright flashes and loud bangs at irregular intervals, veterans may have difficulty with these celebrations.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Florida family physician and former Navy officer Dr. Christopher Scuderi tips for people with PTSD to prepare for the sudden, loud noises of the 4th of July holiday.
Independence Day will be celebrated on July 4, 2023, with fireworks over the Empire State Building in New York City. (Fatih Aktas/Anadolu Agency)
Here are four.
1. Talk to neighbors
People suffering from PTSD should ask their neighbors for advice if they plan to set off fireworks so they aren't surprised when it actually happens, Scuderi said.
In an earlier interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Tony Brooks, a combat veteran based in Everett, Washington, also advised having this “simple human-to-human conversation.”
Talking to neighbors about their fireworks plans can bring veterans spiritual relief, experts say. (iStock)
He advised anyone planning to set off fireworks to casually bring up the subject in conversation.
This step gives others the opportunity to express their concerns without forcing them to admit something they would rather keep to themselves.
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According to Brooks, veterans who have issues with fireworks are most likely to speak up when the topic comes up, even if the answer is as simple as, “I'm not a fan of them.”
2. Shift up a gear
For veterans who will be indoors, Scuderi recommends darkening the room and using hearing protection, such as foam earplugs or noise-canceling headphones, while fireworks are going off.
“Have some items around your home that can help you practice self-care before the holidays and help you calm down when you're exposed to loud noises,” he advises.
One expert suggested using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones during fireworks. (iStock)
For those planning to be out and about in the evening, Scuderi recommends getting a BOB in case triggers occur.
3. Practice relaxation techniques
According to Scuderi, having self-soothing methods on hand during stressful times can be helpful.
This can include deep breathing exercises to calm the nervous system or other mindfulness techniques, such as mindful eating where you “use all your senses (what does the food look like, smell like, feel like),” says Scuderi.
As the 4th of July approaches, here's what you need to know about veterans, PTSD and fireworks
“Sometimes the 5-4-3-2-1 sensory exercise can help get attention back on track,” the doctor said.
“What are five things you can see, four things you can hear, three things you can feel, two things you can smell, and one good or grateful thing you can say about yourself?”
Practicing mindfulness and breathing techniques can come in handy during loud fireworks, an expert says. (iStock)
Scuderi also recommended talking to yourself positively.
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“It can help if you remind yourself that you are in a safe zone,” he said.
“Accept your emotions and remind yourself [fireworks] be surprising to everyone, and that you are safe.”
4. Cool the body
Especially during the hot summer months, Scuderi advised lowering body temperature by taking a cold shower or placing an ice cube or bag of frozen vegetables on the skin.
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“[This] can help with PTSD triggers,” he said.
A vendor sells American flags to spectators waiting for the start of the Independence Day fireworks show at the Washington Monument on July 4, 2022 in Washington, DC (Nathan Howard)
Not every PTSD patient is the same, Brooks says, as many veterans enjoy fireworks on the Fourth of July.
For veterans struggling with their symptoms, Scuderi recommends contacting VA resources such as the PTSD Coach mobile app or the VA crisis line 1-800-273-8255.
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“Or talk to your doctor about treatment options,” he added.
