5 Ways to Manage PTSD Symptoms During Fireworks Season | Everyday Health

I am happy the many people enjoy Fireworks and that many cities celebrate our independence. Both my dog and I have a difficult time with the 'surprise' fireworks that show up randomly in and around our neighborhoods. I tend to take my dog and I to the basement of our home, this is the most quiet place we can go. Most the time after a few hours, we are good to go.
If you enjoy fireworks, I want you to enjoy the experiences. If you plan on launching fireworks, please be considerate of neighbors and discuss your plan. If you are in a rural area and neighbors aren't very near, launch away! Happy July 4th, our independence day!

Cohen Veterans Network
Symptoms of PTSD, which stem from a shocking or terrifying experience, can be triggered by sights, sounds, or smells that other people find tolerable or even enjoyable.iStock (2)
Summer often brings with it bright and booming fireworks shows, especially on patriotic holidays like the Fourth of July. Yet as beautiful as these light displays are, they can be triggering for people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

People with PTSD live with symptoms that stem from their body’s response to a shocking or terrifying experience, such as war or combat in the military, natural disasters, or individual personal events such as sexual assault. These symptoms can occur on their own or be triggered by anything that brings the person back to reliving their traumatic experience, such as loud noises from fireworks or certain aromas that other people tolerate well or even enjoy.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (PDF), once triggered, this reliving of trauma can include flashbacks, nightmares, and physical reactions such as uncontrollable shaking and heart palpitations.

If you or someone you love has PTSD, here are five ways to reduce PTSD symptoms during fireworks season.
(Click on meme to see 5 ways...)

I guess the only way to fix it is to move. I follow the law, so killing or beating the probable 30 people in my neighborhood who shoot off mortars in the area at random between June 1st and August 1st isn't going to happen. I'm trying to move. Not only do I find myself standing up from a dead sleep, our cats hide in the house in a panic every time some inconsiderate jerk decides to be "powerful" by setting off illegal fireworks as late as 3 am. I like the idea of yard signs, but it only controls those who are caring people.