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June 30, 2021 | Wellness | Mental Health | Healthy You
Sudden loud noises are common during the Independence Day holiday. Here are 9 tips for coping with it.
Americans celebrate our country’s birthday with parades, picnics and cookouts. For many, the fireworks are the “icing” on the cake of the 4th of July.
But for individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), explosions and noisy displays can raise anxiety levels and bring back traumatic memories.
City or community firework shows aren’t the problem as everyone knows when and where those are due to happen.
But personal fireworks and illegal firecrackers set off randomly anywhere, at any time, can trigger PTSD.
With the pandemic and months of social unrest, the last year and a half has been fairly traumatizing for many people, particularly for those of color, of Asian heritage and those experiencing new medical, economic, marital or employment challenges.
According to John Lipkin, MD, a PeaceHealth psychiatrist in Eugene, Oregon, people who have been under pressure are more likely to feel hyper-alert and are, therefore, more bothered by explosions, fireworks, backfires, gunshots, etc. Many are feeling more alienated from their communities for a host of reasons and this feeling of distance means the noises associated with the holiday can increase their sense of fear.
With the lifting of many COVID-related restrictions, some people might be more tempted than ever to celebrate with fireworks and large gatherings this year. At the same time, recent heatwaves, drought, the risk of wildfires and local bans or restrictions on fireworks might help others wisely choose to let go of this traditional activity. Nevertheless, it would be prudent--especially for anyone affected by PTSD--to prepare for whatever may come.
Dr. Lipkin offers nine practical tips to prepare and cope:
Sources:
Americans celebrate our country’s birthday with parades, picnics and cookouts. For many, the fireworks are the “icing” on the cake of the 4th of July.
But for individuals with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), explosions and noisy displays can raise anxiety levels and bring back traumatic memories.
City or community firework shows aren’t the problem as everyone knows when and where those are due to happen.
But personal fireworks and illegal firecrackers set off randomly anywhere, at any time, can trigger PTSD.
With the pandemic and months of social unrest, the last year and a half has been fairly traumatizing for many people, particularly for those of color, of Asian heritage and those experiencing new medical, economic, marital or employment challenges.
According to John Lipkin, MD, a PeaceHealth psychiatrist in Eugene, Oregon, people who have been under pressure are more likely to feel hyper-alert and are, therefore, more bothered by explosions, fireworks, backfires, gunshots, etc. Many are feeling more alienated from their communities for a host of reasons and this feeling of distance means the noises associated with the holiday can increase their sense of fear.
With the lifting of many COVID-related restrictions, some people might be more tempted than ever to celebrate with fireworks and large gatherings this year. At the same time, recent heatwaves, drought, the risk of wildfires and local bans or restrictions on fireworks might help others wisely choose to let go of this traditional activity. Nevertheless, it would be prudent--especially for anyone affected by PTSD--to prepare for whatever may come.
Dr. Lipkin offers nine practical tips to prepare and cope:
Sources: