Iowa (RI) — Iowans who celebrate Independence Day early with fireworks may be upsetting some of their neighbors, and not just for shattering the tranquility. Those loud noises can make it very difficult for people who have post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, according to victim advocate Erin Collins.
PTSD is a mental health disorder that can develop in some people after they witness a scary, dangerous, or even shocking event. Fireworks can be particularly distressing for people who’ve been around gunfire, so Collins suggests that if you want to set off noisemakers, abide by state and local ordinances and laws.
The holiday is supposed to be about celebrating our nation’s independence and honoring those who help to maintain our freedoms, but people who set off small explosions may be doing the opposite for those who served.
If you might be suffering from the disorder, Collins says talk to a professional about treatment options.
He notes, PTSD is very treatable.
