How fireworks effect those with PTSD

PRINCETON, WV (WVNS) – The 4th of July is almost here. That means many people are already planning their celebrations.

For most of those festivities, fireworks will be involved, but what many may not account for is how this type of celebration affects those with PTSD.

Independence Day is a time to celebrate the founding of our country and fireworks are a huge part of that celebration in American culture.

Those types of celebrations are not as fun and comfortable to everyone though.

59News traveled to Princeton to learn about the effects fireworks have on those affected by Post-traumatic stress disorder.

Misty Cadle, a Licensed Professional Counselor with Beautiful Minds Counseling Center, explained that fireworks can cause distress and bring back painful memories to someone suffering with PTSD.

“It actually negatively impacts the people that defended our freedom. It can be very triggering to them. The loud noises, the bright lights….it mimics explosions in war. It also can mimic fires to those who have been in a house fire or car accident,” said Cadle.

Fireworks are not only used on Independence Day either.

In some places people can let off fireworks all throughout the summer too.

Cadle said it is important to be mindful of when you set off fireworks – especially if you are using them without notice.

“And not do it randomly on a Tuesday night. The 4th of July everybody expects it. It’s part of our American culture. Some kids do it throughout the summer. When it’s unexpected, that’s really when has the most affect on people. It’s when it is just a random time and all of a sudden, they hear this big explosion. It can lead them back to a bad time in their life,” said Cadle to 59News.

Cadle told 59News that it is great to celebrate but it is important to look out for those that can be affected.

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