For many, the upcoming holiday is a celebration with barbecues and fireworks. But for combat veterans, some of the celebrating can be nerve-wracking.
“If a combat veteran is diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, the noise of fireworks can elicit a startle reaction from them because it reminds them of bombs, guns and other explosives,” explains Ron Samarian, M.D., chair, Psychiatry, Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak. “The sound can put the veteran right back into the combat situation. To frame it in a pleasant way, it’s like if you smell an apple and you remember going to the orchard as a child. Only they’re flashing back to a traumatic combat situation.”
This Fourth of July, if you’re having a party with fireworks and are inviting friends or relatives who were in combat, it would be nice to ask the person privately if they’re alright with your plans. “What you don’t want to do is start shooting off fireworks before asking,” says Dr. Samarian.
Estimates say that one-third of Iraqi War veterans have PTSD, a statistic that is consistent throughout history to World War II even though PTSD was not reported as frequently as today. Veterans home from the Middle East experienced the kind of war where the enemy was not always obvious, causing them to be on high alert all the time. Where in World War II, combat was more formal and distinctive uniforms helped distinguish the enemy.
Dr. Samarian says that PTSD can get better, but in some cases it can linger for years. “The younger the soldier was at the time of the traumatic event, the more likely it is to stick around,” he says.
Not everyone who has been in combat has PTSD, so there won't be an issue for all veterans. Just remember to be sympathetic and ask if there's anything you can do for them.
Dr. Samarian
Common reactions could be wanting to flee, being startled and having a flashback. So what do you do if a combat veteran is joining you this holiday? “First, be thankful, mindful and considerate,” says Dr. Samarian. “Not everyone who has been in combat has PTSD, so there won’t be an issue for all veterans. Just remember to be sympathetic and ask if there’s anything you can do for them. If you’re working with a patient who happens to be a veteran, ask if there is anything you can do for them, which may include offering them medication for anxiety or just being kind enough to listen a little longer.”
Remember, veterans volunteered to serve their country and even though their military time is over, they still need our support. Being sensitive to their needs is a great way to show we care.
FIREWORK SAFETY 101