CHICAGO (WGN) — As the Fourth of July holiday approaches rapidly, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is reminding locals about the trauma that can be associated with fireworks for those who have previously served.
While there won’t be an official fireworks display in Chicago this July 4, various shows and events across Chicagoland will mark the nation’s birthday. But the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) warns that fireworks can cause distress, whether expected or unexpected, for active or retired service members.
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“For Veterans, fireworks may cue memories of combat or explosions, and certain military-related celebrations may also raise distress. For others, fireworks may be reminders of intense fires or gun violence,” reads the website.
To help veterans who may feel triggered, the National Center for PTSD offered the following tips to service members who anticipate dealing with fireworks:
- Avoid any fireworks display, show, or event, though the National Center for PTSD reminds that this is a temporary fix, and the issue could worsen over time
- When feeling dread about specific dates or events, veterans should try to remind themselves of the present, rather than dwelling on the past
- Veterans should focus on the meaning of military-related holidays that support their self-care
- Ask if fireworks will be part of a celebration, and if so, what time
- Work on self-care, good sleep, breathing techniques, journaling, mindfulness, and limiting alcohol
- Consider bringing earplugs or headphones to events with fireworks
The National Center for PTSD also offered the following tips on how veterans may manage the occurrence of unexpected fireworks:
- Veterans who are affected should take a moment to remind themselves that they are safe, even if a memory triggers a sense of danger
- Focus on skills and techniques to ground you in the present moment
- Try box breathing: 4 counts inhale, 4 counts hold, 4 counts exhale, 4 counts hold, repeat
- Be mindful of what you’re feeling with judgment or reaction, and focus on that sensation
- Veterans should remind themselves that the moment is temporary and adjust their thinking to avoid being on high alert when there is no threat.
The National Center for PTSD also cautions friends and family to ask how best they can support past or present service members who may experience trauma as a result of fireworks by reminding them that they are safe…