Keeping service members in mind this holiday by recognizing PTSD triggers

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The concussive visceral explosion of a great big firework is an exhilarating experience for most who line the embarcadero in anticipation of the largest fireworks show on the West Coast.

But for a handful of true patriots who served in combat, the experience can be traumatic.

“Not everybody thinks about all the triggers that might impact PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) unless you are living with PTSD, and fireworks are one of those,” said Kelly Williams, the director of the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic, which is part of the Cohen Veteran Network.

Williams has worked with the Veterans Association for the last five years and says some of her veteran patients do have some worries as we get closer to the Fourth of July and the fireworks shows.

“Reminders of maybe combat or just loud noises in general might startle some of those responses to PTSD,” she continued.

While most fireworks watchers don’t have an emotional reaction to fireworks, Williams explained that some of those suffering PTSD will feel their bodies sympathetic nervous system take over. The patient’s heart will race, their anxiety will spike and they should be handled with care.

“There brain and their body are semantically telling them that there is a threat and that threat threshold may not be that severe for you, someone without PTSD, but for them there is an actual real threat,” said Williams.

Experts have suggested ear plugs, distance and keeping plans relaxed are the best ways to help keep people calm.

“Avoidance, so honestly if you have someone — family or a close friend — and you keep saying lets got to fireworks and they are saying, actually ‘I’m good’ or probably ‘no’ — they might not be saying it — but there could be another reason they don’t want to go,” said Williams.

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