PTSD and fireworks for vets on the Coast

The Fourth of July is a day to celebrate the independence of our nation, a group of people that have fought for this country may associate stress more than fun with the holiday.

While the fourth of july is a - day to celebrate the- independence of - our nation, a group of people - that have fought to keep this - country may associate stress- more than fun with the holiday.- some veterans experience- post-traumatic stress disorder- triggered by traditional july - 4th celebrations like fireworks- it's encouraged for those who - plan on using fireworks for - the holiday weekend to reach ou- to veterans in the- community to warn them of the - possible loud noise.- doctor joni utley, a- psychologistg at the gulf coast- veterans health care system in- biloxi, says due to social- distancing rules and fewer larg- celebrations, it is especially- important to keep veterans in - mind.

- - dr. joni utley, gcvhcs- psychologist: "no, i definitely- don't think that people should- steer away from - celebrating all together.

I - think the main thing, you know,- that i would be - - - - concerned about, especially thi- fourth of july during these - times is just that i- would imagine a lot more people- maybe celebrating on their own- versus going to - large fireworks displays becaus- so many of them ar cancelled.

- and so, i - would think, to the extent that- people maybe have this in mind- and just be - considerable and respectful, yo- know, and not do fireworks for- days on end for - example or all times fo the - night because what happens that- - - - can be distressing for veterans- is when, you know, is when you- have those really unexpected- triggers.

- and so, if people can kind of - contain it to the fourth of - july, and sunset, those sort of- things, i think veterans are- going to be expecting it at tha- - - - time, and so they'll be, you- know, prepared for it and able- to manage it."- along with taking deep, slow- breaths and meditation, - utley also suggests using apps- to help veterans with - coping skills, including p-t-s-- coach, virtual hopebox, and v-a- mindfulness.-