Montana VA Calls On All Montanans To Support Veterans With PTSD This Fourth of July

Many people are not aware that a Fourth of July celebration could affect others, and a conversation is the simplest way to start that awareness and support people with PTSD. 

“The Fourth of July can be a difficult time for our nation’s heroes because the sounds, smells and shockwaves of fireworks can create sights, sounds and smells that can activate flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety,” said Executive Director Duane Gill. “Every Montanan can and should help Veterans with PTSD avoid surprise fireworks. We encourage all Montanans, and especially non-Veterans, to be thoughtful of our neighbors who helped earn the freedom we celebrate on the Fourth of July.” 

For Veterans who have PTSD, these tips and resources can help: 

1. If fireworks impact you, reach out to your loved ones and support systems. Let them know that you will need them to check in and be there for you.  
2. Veterans who receive their healthcare from MTVAHCS can call 406-447-6000 to speak with a counselor on coping mechanisms, anxiety, flashbacks, and any other mental health support. 
3. Veterans in crisis and those concerned about them can call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (press 1) to talk with qualified responders or visit veteranscrisisline.net. 
4. Veterans experiencing PTSD can access a free app on their smartphones called PTSD Coach, which includes coping mechanisms for PTSD.
5. Earplugs, headphones, and white noise machines can help block out the noise of fireworks.
6. Consider heading out of town to quieter places or where fireworks are not allowed. 
7. More information and resources on PTSD is available at https://ptsd.va.gov. 

Montana VA Health Care System serves over 49,000 enrolled Veterans across Montana—an area roughly 147,000 square miles in size. Veterans are cared for by a staff of 1,400 at 18 sites of care across the state.  One third of Montana VA employees are Veterans.  

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