Ways to Cope with Fireworks
Fireworks do not elicit the same level of enthusiasm and awe from everyone. We may have certain stereotypes regarding who is negatively impacted by fireworks, but there is not any certain lived experience that fits that description. All kinds of trauma can make our nervous systems reactive to unpredictable loud noises and bright colors. Folks with anxiety or folks who are prone to overstimulation may also be impacted by fireworks. So, you can’t really predict who will be affected by fireworks. If you know you’re affected by fireworks or you start to notice that during fireworks, you’re more on edge or agitated, here are some tips to cope.
Find phrases that you can use to remind yourself of what your body is reacting to and that you’re safe. Phrases include: “you’re safe,” “this is temporary,” “these are fireworks,” etc. Remember to do this in a gentle way, to actually soothe yourself.
Use grounding techniques to keep yourself in your body in the present moment. This can look like pushing your feet into the ground, sitting on the ground, crossing your arms and rubbing the sides of your arms, etc. Try different techniques out to see what works for you!
Lean on your loved ones! Reach out if you’re feeling overwhelmed and/or see if they are willing to do a non-firework activity with you that evening.
Distract yourself by engaging in activities you like or doing something that takes a lot of thought (counting, word search, crossword puzzle).
Remind yourself that although you don’t like fireworks, nobody is doing fireworks to harm you. It’s easy to become angry or resentful that people are doing things that we don’t like and that anger/resentment just makes it so much harder for us. Your feelings/responses are valid and adding frustration/resentment makes it feel a lot worse.
Check in with yourself, even if you’ve always loved fireworks. Notice what’s going on in your body and how you’re feeling. Take breaks as needed!
For more ideas around coping with fireworks check out this article. It is UK-based, so some resources may not be applicable. And a heads up that there are some stats on PTSD and the causes at the beginning of the article.
As always, take what is helpful and leave the rest. I hope you have the week you need.
