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Loud fanfare can turn holiday into a difficult time for veterans

The Leavenworth Times - 7/3/2017

July 01--Loud noises, bright flashes and aerial booms associated with Fourth of July celebrations are all part of the holiday fanfare.

But representatives of the VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System are advising that fireworks can cause concerns for veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Research shows that the auditory and visual triggers of fireworks can result in veterans experiencing a temporary increase in some PTSD symptoms, and this situation is often further complicated by fireworks being used during an extended period around the Fourth of July.

"It is important to be sensitive of our veterans for two reasons," said Dr. Gina Graham, assistant director for the VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System in an email. "First, for many of our nation's heroes, this day represents the cause for which they fought in celebrating our country's continued freedom. With this comes the memories of fallen heroes and comrades who sacrificed their lives in fighting for our freedom. Second, many of our veterans have been exposed to combat and struggle with hypervigilance, anxiety and other symptoms of exposure to combat stress situations. It is easy for veterans to avoid the large firework shows if this is activating for them. However, it is the loud, random fireworks set off unexpectedly in their neighborhoods that are often the most distressing, as these can trigger memories of combat stress and trauma and aggravate a combat veteran's symptoms."

VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System recommends that veterans living with PTSD prepare for the holiday.

Veterans who enjoy participating in Fourth of July activities can practice being around loud noises prior to the holiday to decrease the impact of the noises during the holiday celebrations.

Veterans can choose to wear noise-canceling headphones to mitigate the effects of sudden, loud noises.

The Fourth of July holiday often is a time when families get together for barbecues and other activities. But some veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder avoid this type of exposure and seek the isolation and safety of their own homes.

Joe Burks, public affairs officers for the VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System, said that people intending to shoot off fireworks should not do it at odd hours or near the homes of veterans.

Burks suggests that people reach out to their neighbors who are veterans and ask them if they are disturbed by fireworks.

"You may find they have no issue but for those who do, you may just be able to help make this the most peaceful Fourth of July since their return from war," Burks said.

During the Fourth of July holiday, Burks said veterans often express their angst about the holiday.

"I hear it in their voice and see it in their eyes," Burks said in an email. "They want shelter from the excitement and sound that many take for granted. ... I challenge the community to hear our veterans' voices this holiday season and respect those who gave so much through sensitivity and awareness."

If a veteran's reaction to fireworks is causing distress, they might benefit from seeking help. The National Center for PTSD offers information on its website for veterans and their family members. Visit www.ptsd.va.gov for more information.

Twitter: @LVTimesRountree

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