Fireworks and Veterans with PTSD

BATH, N.Y. ( WETM ) – For many, July 4th is a time of celebration and to watch the fireworks. But for some veterans, fireworks trigger their PTSD. 18 News went to the VA hospital in Bath to see what resources are available for veterans in times of crisis.

Many different treatments are available for veterans struggling with PTSD.

“Cognitive Behavior Therapy, we have Prolonged Exposure Therapy, a lot of different things available. There’s actually a resource that the National Center for PTSD and the VA has put together for anybody, any veteran exploring that type of treatment,” said Social Worker & Veteran Jim Inthanongsak.

The VA also has same day mental health access for those seeking help.

“During that appointment, that veteran will meet with a licensed mental health professional. We’ll assess what their immediate needs are, how urgent things are as far as the need that they have for their care,” said Inthanongsak.

Jim Inthanongsak served as a U.S. Marine during the Invasion of Iraq in 2003 and now helps other veterans struggling with returning home.

“It was a difficult time for me when I transitioned back into the civilian world, but it wasn’t until I actually began to talk about ‘How can I get better? How can I move forward in my life?’ and really sought care and support and the VA provided that for me and I want to bring that to all of my fellow veterans as well,” said Inthanongsak.

For more information on veterans resources from VA Hospitals, click here .

For more information on veterans resources from the National Center for PTSD, click here .

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