CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – With one city-wide fireworks display in the books, and another to follow tonight at Fort Campbell, the community is celebrating Independence Day with a bang. But celebrating American’s independence may cause trauma for those who fought for the same freedoms.
The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that between 11 and 20 percent of those who served in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars return home with PTSD. The V.A. said that 12 percent of Desert Storm veterans and 15 percent of Vietnam War vets also have PTSD.
While a number of instances can trigger someone to have PTSD, the loud bangs that fireworks cause can be of particular concern for combat veterans.
The V.A. says that PTSD can cause veterans to have upsetting memories, feel on edge, or have trouble sleeping.
Symptoms of PTSD may include: extreme vigilance and arousal, nightmares or insomnia, negative changes in mood, intrusive thoughts of the trauma, avoidance or social isolation.
People with PTSD typically are highly alert to any movement or change that could signal danger.
Learn more about fireworks regulations in Clarksville.
If you or someone you know may be suffering with PTSD, Soliders and Families Embraced SAFE provides professional support.