Supporting veterans through firework season

Last updated: 30 October 2026

Fireworks can be enjoyable for some people and difficult for others. For some veterans, sudden bangs, flashes or the smell of smoke can bring back distressing experiences. Others may find the noise or unpredictability overwhelming.

You do not need a PTSD diagnosis for your distress to matter or to ask for support.

Why can fireworks and bonfire night feel difficult?

Following trauma, reminders of what happened can set off the body’s threat response. You might know you are watching fireworks and still feel frightened, on edge or as though something dangerous is happening.

Some people experience a racing heart, an urge to get away, distressing memories or a sense of being disconnected from their surroundings. Waiting for the next unexpected bang can be difficult too.

Understanding your own response can help you plan what you need.

Practical tips that may help

Plan ahead where you can

Check when nearby displays are happening and decide where you would feel most comfortable. If you are going out, think about who you could go with, somewhere quieter to take a break and how you would get home. You do not have to attend a display to prove you can cope.

Make your surroundings more comfortable

At home, closing curtains and using familiar music or television at a comfortable volume may help. Some people find ear defenders or noise-cancelling headphones useful.

Bring your attention back to the present

If a memory feels as though it is happening again, look around and name where you are, today’s date and a few things that show you are somewhere different now. Feel your feet against the floor or notice the texture of an object in your hand. Start with one thing; you do not need to work through every sense.

Try gentle breathing if it helps

Let your breathing settle into a comfortable rhythm, with a slightly longer outbreath. Avoid forcing deep breaths. If focusing on breathing makes you feel worse, return your attention to something around you instead.

Agree support in advance

Tell someone you trust what you might find difficult and what usually helps. That might mean staying nearby, checking in by phone or helping you move somewhere quieter.

Practising a familiar coping strategy when you feel settled can make it easier to use when you need it. Choose what works for you.

How family and friends can help

Ask the person what would be helpful. If they become distressed, speak calmly, give them space and offer simple choices, such as staying together or moving somewhere quieter. Ask before touching them, and avoid pressuring them to explain their experiences.

If you are organising fireworks, giving neighbours advance notice of the time and expected duration can help people prepare.

When to seek further support

If these reactions are affecting your sleep, relationships or everyday life, speak with your GP or existing mental health team. Coping strategies can help in the moment; treatment can help address the difficulties behind those reactions.

Veterans can find information about therapy and referral routes through Walking With The Wounded’s Head Start mental health programme.

Helplines & Numbers

For urgent mental health support in England, call 111 and select the mental health option. Elsewhere in the UK, contact your local urgent mental health service.

Samaritans offers free listening support, day or night, on 116 123.

If someone’s life is at risk, or you cannot keep yourself or someone else safe, call 999 or go to A&E.