July 4th Awareness

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PTSD Monthly Update - News Relevant to the Issues of Trauma and PTSD

February 2023

FEATURED TOPIC

Fireworks

Fireworks and PTSD

Fireworks are used to celebrate many events, from holidays to music concerts and sports. Even though fireworks are meant to entertain us, it is not uncommon for the sounds, intense light or smells to cause distress. Those who have gone through a trauma that included explosions, gunfire, loud noises or fire may be more likely to find fireworks to be a reminder—a trigger or cue—of such past events.

Some examples of distress you may feel include:

  • Strong reactions to the sound of fireworks (or ceremonial gun or cannon fire)
  • Strong reactions to flashing lights common with fireworks
  • Feeling numb or emotionally distant during celebrations

Learn tips to manage symptoms or host an event that is sensitive to those who are affected by fireworks.

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PODCAST SERIES

PTSD Bytes

Join us for these 12-minute-or-less talks with experts about technology resources you can use or share to help with PTSD.

Problem-Solving Therapy

Problems and stress are a normal part of life, but sometimes they can feel overwhelming. Dr. Shannon Sisco discusses how Problem-Solving Therapy can help you learn to solve big and small problems in your life and teach you how to cope with the stress that comes with them..

MOBILE APP SPOTLIGHT

A Veteran using VA mobile apps on his phone

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) aims to help you live with unpleasant thoughts, feelings, and impulses without avoiding them or being controlled by them. In ACT, you are encouraged to commit to actions so that you can live your life by your values, even in the face of these unpleasant experiences.

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RESEARCH PARTICIPATION OPPORTUNITY

VA’s National Center for PTSD and the Coaching Into Care program have partnered to study telephone coaching methods to help spouses and intimate partners of Veterans with untreated PTSD get their Veteran into mental health care. The study will provide free telephone coaching and, if assigned, access to online educational materials. Participants will be compensated up to $170 for participating.

Visit: https://www.familycoachingstudy.org to learn more about the study and complete a brief screening quiz to see if you are eligible to participate. For participant’s rights questions, contact 1-866-680-2906.

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Thank you,

The Staff of VA’s National Center for PTSD

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