Supporting veterans through firework season

Last updated: 01 November 2024

With firework season approaching, it can be a difficult time of year for some veterans, particularly those with 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.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.

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.

Need help immediately?

If you need someone to talk to, contact Samaritans on 0116 123 or use their online, email or letter writing services.

Alternatively, contact the NHS out of hours service on 111

If you are suicidal or at risk of harming others call 999