Revelers advised to remember vets' PTSD on July 4

Montana's Veterans Administration is asking Fourth of July revelers to think about veterans and the impacts fireworks may have on people with post-traumatic stress disorder before they light a firework.

According to the VA, many people are not aware that a Fourth of July celebration could affect others, and a conversation is the simplest way to start that awareness and support people with PTSD.

"The Fourth of July can be a difficult time for our nation’s heroes because fireworks create sights, sounds and smells that can activate flashbacks, nightmares and anxiety," Dr. Robert Connell, the state VA's acting associate chief of staff for mental health services, said in a statement. "The sudden, sharp explosions of unexpected fireworks can create a state of hyperawareness and hypervigilance for veterans with PTSD."

For veterans who have PTSD, the VA offers these tips and resources:

• If fireworks impact you, reach out to your loved ones and support systems. Let them know you will need them to check in and be there for you.
• Veterans who receive health care from the VA can call 406-447-6000 to speak with a counselor on coping mechanisms, anxiety, flashbacks and any other mental health support.
• Veterans in crisis and those concerned about them can call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 (press 1) to talk with qualified responders or visit veteranscrisisline.net.
• Veterans experiencing PTSD can access a free app on their smartphones called PTSD Coach, which includes coping mechanisms for PTSD.
• Earplugs, headphones and white noise machines can help block out the noise of fireworks.
• Consider heading out of town to quieter places or where fireworks are not allowed.

More information and resources on PTSD can be found at ptsd.va.gov.

"We encourage all Montanans, and especially non-veterans, to be conscientious and thoughtful of our neighbors who helped earn the freedom we celebrate on the Fourth of July," Dr. Judy Hayman, the state VA's executive director, said in a statement. "Every Montanan can and should help veterans with PTSD avoid surprise fireworks. If you plan to light fireworks on non-Fourth of July days, be considerate and have a conversation with your neighbors and let them that you would like to set off fireworks. Fireworks are expected on the Fourth of July, but not at 2 a.m. or 2 p.m. in the days before and after July 4."