The Fourth of July, New Year’s Eve, and many other holidays are a natural fit for fireworks. After a long day of celebrations, kicking back in the backyard or at a professional display is a great way to relax with family and friends, right? For the majority of people, this is true. But for more than a few, fireworks are a source of terror, confusion, and even flashbacks. Just getting through the night can be tremendously challenging. Here’s what you should know.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, can be caused by living through any traumatic event, from natural disasters to severe abuse. It is also unfortunately common in veterans who have seen combat, affecting up to 20% of those who served in Afghanistan or Iraq, and up to 30% of Vietnam veterans, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.
A hallmark of PTSD is the tendency to experience flashbacks to the traumatic event, which are triggered by environmental stimuli. For war veterans, the bursts of light and explosive sounds of fireworks can easily trigger a flashback to combat. Yet many veterans want to celebrate instead of hide, especially on such patriotic holidays as the Fourth of July.
Sensory Issues
Sensory issues, or trouble processing and integrating incoming data, are extremely common among kids (and some adults) on the autism spectrum, but can have other causes as well. Regardless of the cause, however, those with sensory issues often find fireworks shows to be an assault on the senses rather than a good time.
The sudden noises and brightly colored patterns, mixed with the ambient darkness and loud, boisterous crowds, can actually feel physically painful for those with sensory issues. Yet many people do not want to lock themselves away, but are instead determined to spend time with their friends and relatives.
Physical Challenges
Fireworks shows, by their very nature, are held outdoors in dark places, with a lot of people packed into a relatively small area. People with certain physical disabilities can also have trouble attending fireworks displays.
For example, those who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids may have difficulty negotiating uneven terrain, while those with visual impairments may have trouble with the low ambient lighting punctuated by intense bursts of light. People with allergies or asthma may not be able to tolerate the residual smoke in the air. Those with light sensitivities may be unable to tolerate the bright explosions.
Coping Strategies
Everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. In general, though, people struggling with PTSD and sensory challenges often find that their coping strategies are very similar. In both cases, the element of surprise can heighten the effects, so attending a planned fireworks display may actually be much easier to tolerate than the neighbors setting off backyard fireworks at random.
Hearing protection, such as noise cancelling headphones, can be a big help to people in both of these groups. Some people prefer quiet, while others load up their music players with soothing tunes.
Relaxation techniques can also help to ground those with PTSD or sensory challenges. Deep breathing and meditation are both tricky to learn, but once you know how to do them, you can use them anywhere with no external equipment.
Physically grounding yourself can also help. Trying bringing a blanket and carving out personal space on the ground, or leaning against a pole or fencepost. For children, having a stroller to retreat into can go a long way towards restoring equilibrium.
For physical challenges, think of creative solutions to meet the particular need. For example, people using mobility devices and those with visual impairments might want to arrive early to find a spot and get settled before dark. Those with allergies or asthma might want to bring a rescue inhaler and stay near the edge of the crowd for an easy escape if needed.
Of course, it is always acceptable to simply skip the fireworks show. Never let peer pressure or the desire to conform push you into doing anything you are not comfortable with. Today, there are so many televised celebrations for every major holiday that staying in does not need to mean missing out on the fun. Make some popcorn, lay in a supply of your favorite drinks, and enjoy the broadcast!
At Dynamite Fireworks, we don’t only sell top-quality, name-brand fireworks. We also provide the information you need to know to use them responsibly, legally, and safely. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at (219) 937-4090. We look forward to becoming your one-stop shop for all your fireworks needs!