As Oklahomans gather to celebrate Independence Day, INTEGRIS Health encourages communities to remember that the sights and sounds of the holiday can be difficult for many military veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
As Oklahomans gather to celebrate Independence Day, INTEGRIS Health encourages communities to remember that the sights and sounds of the holiday can be difficult for many military veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Oklahoma is home to nearly 250,000 veterans, one of the highest per-capita veteran populations in the nation. While fireworks are a cherished tradition for Fourth of July celebrations, the loud booms, bright flashes and lingering smells associated with fireworks can trigger distressing memories and symptoms for veterans who have experienced combat or other traumatic events during military service.
“Independence Day is a meaningful opportunity to honor the sacrifices made by our nation’s veterans, but it is also important to recognize that the holiday can be especially challenging for some who carry the invisible wounds of military service,” says Jonathan Meier, M.D., a former U.S. Navy SEAL and primary care physician at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Rose Creek.
Approximately 7% of all U.S. veterans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives, compared to about 6% of the general civilian population. However, this rate increases dramatically based on service era, combat exposure, gender and whether the veteran utilizes healthcare through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.
Veterans with PTSD may experience the following symptoms during the Fourth of July:
Jonathan Meier, M.D., encourages veterans and first responders to prepare ahead of holiday celebrations by discussing concerns with their family and friends, identifying quiet spaces, using noise-canceling headphones when necessary, limiting alcohol consumption and prioritizing self-care.
Friends and family should also be aware non-verbal cues – isolating, sudden irritability or hypervigilance. “We train our military and first responders to push through discomfort and to never be the weak link in the chain, which can make it difficult for them to reach out for help,” he says. “If you notice a change in their baseline behavior, check in and offer help.”
This Independence Day, honoring our veterans means supporting both their physical and mental health. Community members can help by providing advance notice before setting off fireworks and being mindful of veterans, first responders and others who may be affected by unexpected loud noises.
“PTSD is a medical condition, not a sign of weakness, and effective treatments are available,” Meier says. “Veterans who find holiday celebrations overwhelming should know they are not alone. Seeking support from a healthcare provider can be an important step toward improving quality of life and managing symptoms.”
To find an INTEGRIS Health primary care physician who can help connect patients with the care and resources they need, visit INTEGRIS Health. To schedule an appointment with Jonathan Meier, M.D., call 405-471-6800.
If you or a veteran you know is in crisis or needs immediate support, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, text 838255 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net. Support is free, confidential and available 24/7.
