Veterans with PTSD ask for courtesy during July Fourth

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. ( NEWS10 ) — As Fourth of July festivities kick off, fireworks are one of the most common ways the nation’s independence is celebrated. However, the tradition is not something everyone can enjoy, especially those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, and other emotional issues. The loud noises and flashing lights can be triggering as they resemble sounds similar to combat.

Andrew Berry, a psychologist who specializes in treating veterans and first responders with PTSD and other emotional issues, said that this time of year is extremely difficult for those who have served in war. Veterans are having to go to great lengths to detach the sound of fireworks from trauma they experienced years ago.

“When those fireworks, those pyrotechnics are set off, they yank the combat guys right back to the wars they are trying to forget,” Dr. Berry said.

Mitchell Cann, a retired field Medical Technician in the Marine Corps, suffers from emotional issues as a result from serving in war. Cann said he spends this holiday in his basement, as far away as he can from the celebratory noise. He said he wears noise canceling earphones and is surrounded by loved ones when fireworks go.

“It takes a lot out of us combat vets, I get jumpy, I’ll duck, my head will drop, I’ll get the jitters,” Cann said.

Dr. Berry urges everyone to be aware of those around you who may be having a reaction to fireworks. Symptoms of a trauma response to loud noises, and bright flashes may include seizures, hyperventilating, nausea, high blood pressure, and increased heart rate.

Dr. Berry says it’s important be aware of those in your neighborhood, and learn who has served in combat, and check with them to make sure they are aware that you may set off fireworks so everyone can take the proper measures. Berry also recommends playing white noise and wearing earphones for those at home.

“Residential areas are by design a place for quiet, and there has got to be places for people to take their fireworks and enjoy them, away from residential areas, away from neighbors, and away from animals,” Berry said.

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