The Montana VA Health Care System encourages all Montanans to be mindful of veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder as Independence Day nears.
The loud, sudden noises and bright flashes from fireworks can be difficult for veterans living with PTSD. The sights and sounds can bring back memories of trauma and trigger symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks or trouble sleeping.
“The Fourth of July can be a difficult time for our nation’s heroes because the sounds, smells and shockwaves of fireworks can activate flashbacks, nightmares and anxiety related to the trauma of past combat situations,” said Dr. Robert Connell, deputy chief of staff for Behavioral Health at the Montana VA. “Every Montanan can and should help veterans with PTSD avoid surprise fireworks.”
He encouraged everyone to be thoughtful of those who helped earn the freedom celebrated on the Fourth of July.
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