TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Fireworks on the 4th of July is one of the oldest traditions in the United States, but those bright lights and sounds could be triggering for others.
This weekend, countless residents will perform or enjoy a firework show to celebrate the 249th birthday of the United States of America.
However, Military Veterans Program Coordinator at Hamilton Center, Steven Neice, said many don’t know that they could be causing their neighbors to experience PTSD.
“11% to 20% of military veterans that use the VA have experienced PTSD, but in the general public you’re looking at 7% to 8% for PTSD”, Neice said.
To help bring awareness to the issue, July has become PTSD Awareness Month.
Neice is a veteran himself, but said PTSD can stem from a number of situations.
“That could be from trauma experienced as a child or as an adult through various things like abuse”, Neice said. “It could be from a car accident; it could be from the tornado that hit Sullivan. There’s a lot of things that can cause PTSD.”
In military veterans, Neice said the noises of the holiday cause the worst effects.
“It could just be a jump scare, just enough that it sets them on edge”, Neice said. “Some people it might be enough that it is a flashback, it takes them right back to the moment.”
Neice said the easiest way to be courteous is not set off anything near people who don’t know what is coming.
“It should not be done in a residential neighborhood”, Neice said. “If you’re going to do it, take it someplace else because not everyone knows their neighbor. It’s always better if people can just enjoy the fireworks out at the park. If you do know your neighbor is a veteran, make sure to let them know if you’re going to be shooting them off and ask them if everything is going to be ok.”
The Hamilton Center has both military programs and a 24-hour crisis line. If you are struggling with PTSD and need help, you can call that line at 800-742-0787.
