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When Fireworks Don’t Feel Like Freedom: PTSD Awareness and Coping During Independence Day

fireworks

By Camille Weston, Public Affairs Officer

For many Americans, the Fourth of July is a time for celebration—cookouts, fireworks, and a shared sense of national pride. But for some Veterans living with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this patriotic holiday can be filled with distress, not delight.

While fireworks symbolize freedom, their sudden booms, flashing lights, and smoky trails can trigger intense reactions for those who’ve experienced trauma, especially combat Veterans. Loud noises may resemble gunfire. The unpredictability of neighborhood displays can shatter a Veteran’s sense of safety. 

What feels like a celebration to some can cause others to relive their most difficult moments.

 “Veterans may find themselves feeling blindsided by fireworks they weren’t expecting,” said Dr. Shawn Clark, Serious Mental Illness Program Manager and Local Recovery Coordinator at the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center. “It’s not about a lack of patriotism—it’s about navigating deeply wired trauma responses and reclaiming a sense of calm in the face of distress.”

Recognizing Symptoms of Distress

During the Fourth of July, Veterans with PTSD may experience: 

  • Intense reactions to loud noises or bright flashes
  • Feeling jumpy, on edge, or emotionally detached
  • Flashbacks that make past trauma feel immediate
  • Feeling unable to control surroundings
  • Resorting to alcohol or drugs to dull unwanted memories

Even expected fireworks displays can lead to anxiety in the days or weeks leading up to the holiday.

Tools and Tips for Managing Fireworks

Whether fireworks are anticipated or sudden, several techniques can help Veterans ground themselves:

  •  Pause and breathe. Try box breathing: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4.
  • Use your senses. Eat something sour or spicy to bring attention to the present.
  • Remind yourself: You are safe. The moment will pass.
  • Bring earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to minimize triggers.
  • Plan ahead. Learn when and where fireworks will take place, and talk with a trusted person who can join you.
  • Limit alcohol and get adequate sleep beforehand to increase resilience.

Most importantly, know that you are not alone. Many Veterans face similar challenges during this time of year.

Support at Your Fingertips

VA offers a range of tools to support mental health, right from your smartphone:

  • PTSD Coach: Helps you learn about PTSD and track your symptoms.
  • Mindfulness Coach: Offers guided practices to reduce anxiety and stay present.

Both apps are free and available on Apple and Android devices.

For those struggling with ongoing symptoms, reaching out for professional support can make a difference. Contact your VA Mental Health team to talk through your concerns and explore treatment options that work for you.

If you or a Veteran you know is in crisis or needs immediate support, help is always available.

Call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.