The Fourth of July brings the inevitable thunder and crackles of fireworks. But for those suffering from PTSD, the celebratory booms can serve as a painful reminder.
Diane Ryan, director of Outpatient Services at Sonora Behavioral Health, said that people with post-traumatic stress disorder or those that know PTSD sufferers should prepare for more than just one day of fireworks.
"You know, everyone's prepared in the evening of the fourth, but some celebrations on the third some on the fifth. So you want to be aware this could be a whole weekend of potential triggers," Ryan said.
State law allows for the sale of fireworks between May 20 through July 6 but prohibits their use until June 24. Items like firecrackers, bottle rockets and roman candles are illegal in Arizona year-round.
