For many of us, the Fourth of July is a highly anticipated summer holiday that usually includes family and friends, cooking outdoors, and of course, fireworks. People of all ages get into the spirit of celebrating our country’s independence by buying, lighting-off or watching fireworks shows. But if you are one of the estimated five percent of persons currently struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, you are likely already experiencing anxiety and dread for what’s soon to come.
In recent decades, awareness has increased about the ill-effects that fireworks can have for some combat veterans, as the loud and unpredictable snaps, pops, and bangs often mimic sounds of gunfire and explosions that occur during combat. Additionally, the bright eruptions of color produced by fireworks symbolize flashes of weapons and fires resulting from combat-related property distruction. And of course, don’t forget about the smells of gun powder and smoke in the air. The mimicry is intentional and is the whole point of fireworks, as you may recall the lines of our national anthem. But for those persons who have unresolved trauma in their backgrounds, fireworks produce much more than symbolism and nostalgia.
The sounds, sights, and smells of fireworks can involuntarily whisk-away those with PTSD into vivid and terrifying flashbacks. Furthermore, any currently traumatized person (and NOT just combat vets) will endure the Fourth (and the days leading up to it) with a great deal of anxiety; they will likely be restless, on-edge, and may startle profoundly at every pop, zing, or whiz. Independence Day will be exhausting for them, and they likely will be yearning to “get it all over with” as soon as possible
Though it is natural and understandable for the trauma survivor to want to avoid triggering sights, sounds, and smells, this does not mean that they should isolate themselves and not participate with family and friends. Isolation usually just increases highly negative and critical self-talk which furthers mood and anxiety disorders, as well as the abuse of substances.
Instead, the trauma survivor can talk with a trusted loved one about their concerns in order to develop a plan that means everyone can participate in the parts of the celebration they are comfortable with. Additionally, the person who struggles can plan on implementing various healthy coping skills that will help them stay grounded if they choose to be present during fireworks shows or displays. But how do you go about doing these things? Therapy is a great place to start!
Working with a clinician who specializes in the treatment of trauma (such as myself) can be extremely helpful to a trauma survivor as well as to their family and friends. While we can assist you in building the skills you need, we also can help you put your experience into words that your loved ones can understand. This not only will bring you all closer, it will also make planning your Independence Day Celebration a “snap” and maybe even a DYNAMITE-occasion!!
Don’t let your past cheat you out of making happy memories; those memories are what a happy life is all about. Please consider getting in touch with me about scheduling an appointment. I’d love to speak with you about helping you move forward.
Cheers and a Happy Fourth,
Nichole