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Tripp Mullenax and Faith Over Fear ~ Biker and Riding Group Presents: 

“4th of July | PTSD” 

The bright lights and booming sounds of fireworks on the Fourth of July can be tough for veterans and others suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. 

The random explosion of fireworks, booms, bright lights, loud cheering and so much more can trigger a startle or perhaps a fight - flight - secluded response in people who have PTSD. 

The mental health condition develops in some people after they witness a shocking, scary, or dangerous and/or a traumatic event{s}. 

These triggers can be sights, sounds, or scents that remind them of the trauma in any way possible.  For individuals who have witnessed gun violence, torture, blood, screams of violence, abuse {physical and/or mental regardless of age} or who have served in the military, fireworks may trigger their PTSD. Although the loud noise of the fireworks can itself be triggering of traumatic memories, typically it is the unpredictability of the explosion that activates the arousal system or sympathetic nervous system. 

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. 

Often, it's hard for them to focus their attention, and they experience intrusive mental images or ‘flashbacks and thoughts about the trauma events. 

They can become easily angered or reactive to perceived threats, violent, combative, reclusive, and even suicidal.  

It is also likely that their mood is anxious, depressed, angry, or fearful. Those with a family history or a predisposition for anxiety or depression, and one’s psychological temperament, may influence the development and expression of PTSD symptoms. 

When people are aware of fireworks displays in advance, they are not surprised by the explosions and are able to better prepare for them. If you have PTSD, ask your neighbors to alert you if they plan to set off fireworks. 

This will give you time to prepare yourself for the fireworks by gathering any materials you may need to help you (such as headphones or blackout curtains), practice self-regulation techniques, or even distance yourself from the fireworks display. 

It is important to keep in mind that PTSD is not a sign of psychological weakness!! 

This is VERY important!! PTSD can happen to anyone who has gone through, or witnessed, a terrifying death, life- threatening experience, POW/MIA, acts of war, non-combat situations, domestic violence and/or abuse, mental - physical - and/or sexual, rape, violent attack, and so much more....... 

However, most people who go through traumatic events may have temporary difficulty adjusting and coping, but with time and good self-care, they usually get better. 

If the symptoms last for months or years and interfere with your day-to-day functioning, you may need further treatment. 

The National Center for Telehealth and Technology and the Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Center for PTSD have helped in the development of two free apps for smartphones to help people cope better with symptoms of anxiety, panic, and PTSD. One app is called Virtual Hope Box and the other is PTSD Coach. 

If you are struggling with PTSD and want confidential guidance, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), or if you experience suicidal thoughts along with your PTSD episodes, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Or the Veterans Crisis Line at 1.800.273.8255 and Press 1 or text at 838255. Connect with the Veterans Crisis Line to reach caring, qualified responders with the Department of Veterans Affairs. 

Many of them are Veterans themselves. 

In case of emergency: Call 911!! 

Whatever you do, please stay alert, stay safe, get into your comfort protective zone, and stay alive.  

Lastly… Please do not forget about your pets and fireworks.  

That is not a good mix.  Bring you pets in, turn up the tv or music or anything to drown out the background noise.  Be comforting and patient as this will be a scary time for your fur babies especially the fur babies that have been in combat or an abusive situation where PTSD in your pet is present. 

Thank you and God Bless America, our POW/MIA'S, our Troops, our Veteran's, Families, Friends, and everyone suffering with PTSD this Holiday Season. 

Tripp Mullenax 

Active PTSD 

US Army Combat Veteran 

Law Enforcement Veteran 

Founder | Faith Over Fear ~ Biker & Riding Group

 www.trippmullenax.com