Helping veterans with PTSD cope with fireworks during the Fourth of July

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — For veterans with PTSD, the sights, smells and sounds of fireworks can be disturbing. The unexpectedness of it can startle those with PTSD and bring back difficult memories.

For those setting off fireworks, Dr. Joseph Hertzler recommends getting to know your veteran neighbors. Let them know when you’re firing them off, or invite them over to take away the unexpectedness.

Dr. Hertzler specializes in PTSD and says it can get better with help. He encourages people to get help as soon as possible because it can get worse over time. He says do not isolate yourself because that can lead to depression.

“We try to help people not avoid things too much,” Dr. Hertzler said. “To become better at getting involved with people, getting around things that make them uncomfortable, so they can get used to that again, so they can tell the difference between Wichita and Iraq,” Dr. Hertzler said. “Part of our therapy has to do with trying to get people to talk about what they have been through at some length when they’re ready, but also to get them around people and crowds more confidently, and therefore be able to integrate back into society here more comfortably.”

If you do start to feel overwhelmed call or text 988, then press 1.

Or there is a 24/7 emergency department available at the VA. During the day, there is a triage clinic with walk-ins available.

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