Fireworks Tips
Five tips to help veterans affected by fireworks
With fireworks going on sale for Bonfire Night, we are asking the public to buy silent fireworks instead of noisy ones.
Many former servicemen and women with mental health problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder experience distress at this time of year with the sudden flashes and bangs of fireworks reminding them of the horrors of war.
Public displays are returning this year after they were cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19. As these events are advertised, veterans can prepare for the sights and sounds of fireworks. However, many people are still expected to set off fireworks in their garden and it’s these unexpected displays, which happen with no warning, that can have a significant impact on veterans with mental health problems living close by.
Fireworks are on sale to the public from 15 October to 10 November, so veterans face a challenging month ahead having to contend with the distress caused by the fireworks and the grief of mourning fallen comrades at Armistice.
Professor Catherine Kinane, Medical Director at Combat Stress, said:
“We see a higher rate of distress in veterans accessing our services at this time of year. Not only is this time of year challenging because of the grief surrounding Armistice, but the sound and sudden unexpected bangs of fireworks can be reminders of frontline combat where they were exposed to the horrors of war in service to this country.
“Firework displays bring people together and create a lot of joy for spectators. We don’t want to ruin anyone’s fun but we urge the public to understand how distressing noisy fireworks can be for military veterans.”
Support for veterans during fireworks
Tips from our clinical team
We understand that Fireworks can be difficult, so our specialist clinical team gives the following advice:
1. Plan your evening
On days where you know there will be fireworks like Bonfire Night, New Years Eve or a party, being prepared for this can help you cope. You may wish to go out or, if you think that will to be too much, you might prefer to stay at home. Make plans that will ensure your comfort.
2. Identify your triggers
The strong smells and sounds around fireworks can trigger memories. It can be helpful to have competing sensory aid to hand, such as essential oils or soothing music.
3. Breathe
If fireworks are causing anxiety, use your breath to calm your body. Breathe at a pace that feels comfortable and ensure that your out-breaths are long and slow to help calm you down and reduce your anxiety.
4. Stay in the here and now
Identify some things you see around you, focussing on how they look, smell, feel, sound or taste. This can all help bring you into the present and can be helpful if you are feeling zoned out or getting vivid memories.
5. It's good to talk
If you are finding fireworks hard to deal with tell someone close to you and make sure that, if you do go out to an event where there are fireworks you are able to leave whenever you need to.
You can call our free and confidential 24-hour Helpline for mental health advice and support. Call us on 0800 138 1619, text us on 07537 404 719 or email.