While many Fourth of July public celebrations, fireworks shows, and festivals have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 health pandemic, it doesn’t mean that individuals, groups, communities and neighborhoods will cease doing their own personal fireworks. 

In fact, it’s quite possible there may be an increase in fireworks noise, in some areas, due to the cancelled public events. 

For many with traumatic brain injury (TBI), fireworks can trigger Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD) and/or sensory overload and other stressors. 

Preparation, in any case, is key.

Here are some links that can help. 

• Here’s a good article on how to manage PTSD on the 4th of July holiday. 
• Here’s some helpful information in this article about seizure risks and prevention if fireworks are present. 
• This is one of our favorite articles from Brainline.org on handling the holidays in general. Number thirteen in the tip list specifically discusses fireworks.
• Here’s a really thorough article on how to deal with fireworks if you have post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD).
• Click here to view an short video that we have featured on this blog. This video has helpful advice and information directly from a brain injury survivor on how she copes with fireworks.
• For those with sensory issues, this excellent article from Brainline.org can help.
• For those who have suffered a recent trauma and/or loss of a loved one, fireworks can be difficult to be around. Here’s a short article on tips to create a plan and manage anxiety and PTSD. 

Please be safe and take care of yourselves, BEST friends. Many hugs.