Supporting veterans through firework season

Last updated: 30 October 2025

With firework season approaching, it can be a difficult time of year for some veterans, particularly those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as the sound of fireworks can trigger memories of their time and experiences in the military.

For those who face mental health difficulties, being in a stressful situation can often increase their symptoms, causing further stress to the individual which can then have a knock-on effect, leading to issues sleeping and increased anxiety.

Why can bonfire night be difficult for veterans?

Veterans, particularly those with PTSD, often experience heightened sensitivity to loud noises and sudden flashes of light. Fireworks - central to nationwide events such as bonfire night - can mimic the sounds and visuals of combat, such as gunfire, explosions, or flares. These stimuli may lead to:

• Flashbacks of traumatic events
• Heightened anxiety or panic attacks
• Sleep disturbances

Even in familiar settings like home, veterans may struggle due to:

• Lack of control over external noise
• Limited warning about firework displays
• Smells of smoke and bonfires, which can also be triggering

Practical tips for veterans to manage anxiety

If you are feeling anxious around bonfire night, New Year, and the celebrations, here are some tips for helping to manage those feelings:

Support Network: If you are attending a firework display with others, express your concerns to those you are going with so they will be able to support you if you become distressed or anxious.

Smells: Consider having something containing a soothing smell with you to override the smell of fireworks which may trigger negative feelings and difficult memories. Essential oils in scents such as lavender, citrus or peppermint can be useful, or stronger smells such olbas oil or smelling salts.

Breathing Techniques: The sight and sound omitted from fireworks can be triggering for some, so remind yourself of breathing techniques to calm the body and help reduce your anxiety. Remember to take long and slow outbreaths to calm your nervous system and control your breathing.

Ground Yourself: You may already have a technique for helping bring yourself back to the present if you feel zoned out but if not, some helpful tips can be stamping your feet on the ground or walking around. If you are attending an event with friends or family, share these techniques with them in advance so they can assist and remind you of them if you start to feel zoned out or disconnected.

Senses: Focus on your senses. If you begin to feel overwhelmed, distressed, or anxious, look around you and take note of 5 things relating to the senses – something you can see, hear, touch, smell and taste.

Get Moving: Light exercise (press-ups or stretching) can release built-up energy and reduce tension. 

Our most important tip this bonfire season is to do what is comfortable for you, so don’t feel pressured into attending firework displays if you feel uncomfortable doing so.