By Taylor Provine
Division of Communications and Marketing
Having a plan can help prepare children and those with PTSD.
MANHATTAN — With the Fourth of July approaching this week, people will soon gather for fireworks, food and fun. But for those with sensory sensitivities, especially children and individuals with PTSD, the holiday might not be one they look forward to. Two Kansas State University experts are here to help with tips for sensory-aware Fourth of July preparation.
Jennifer Francois, professor of practice in the applied human sciences department and early childhood education program, and Arianna Williams, a licensed clinical professional counselor and the veteran and military-affiliated services counselor at Lafene Counseling and Psychological Services, say important steps include having a plan, paying attention to behaviors and reactions, finding a safe space, and having conversations about the situation.
Make a plan for firework anxietyThe Fourth of July can create a lot of anxiety and stress for individuals who have sensory sensitivities because of the loud and sometimes unexpected noises from fireworks. Francois suggests planning ahead to avoid extra stress in the event of a reaction."Having a plan before an event is important," Francois said. "For example, what is my plan going to be if my child becomes upset? Where are we going to go if I need to remove us from the situation?"For those with post-traumatic stress disorder, Williams suggests knowing where to go and having skills, such as grounding, mindfulness and meditation, that work for you if you do get triggered by something.She added that folks can also be aware of their neighborhood and discuss plans about fireworks with neighbors to find out if they are planning to start celebrating before the Fourth of July or continue celebrations after the holiday.
Watch for noise reactions and listen to requests for adjustment One of the most important things for parents is to listen to their child, Francois said."Pay attention to the child's reactions and behaviors, and watch for increased anxiety and stress," she said. "If the child becomes visibly upset and starts to cry or covers their ears or eyes, or says that they want to leave, then you want to honor that, and try and figure out a way to give them some respite from those sensory experiences."Francois also encourages parents to keep their child close."Have your child sit on your lap at first to give them the opportunity to stay close to someone they are familiar with," Francois said. "If the child seems comfortable and is having fun, then maybe the child could sit next to the adult."It's also important to be aware of signs that someone with PTSD might be struggling or need help during holiday celebrations."Sometimes it can be hard to recognize when someone with PTSD is triggered," Williams said. "They might become withdrawn, emotionally guarded or disengaged from those around them. In some cases, you might notice heightened alertness or hypervigilance to their surroundings. If someone starts talking or behaving in a way that is unrelated to the current situation, it could indicate they're experiencing a flashback. In these moments, it's important to engage empathetically to develop a better understanding of what may actually be occurring."
Williams emphasized that responses to triggers can vary widely from person to person."The most important thing is to offer support in a way that's respectful and non-intrusive," she said. "Avoid physical contact unless the person explicitly gives permission, and gently encourage them to take a break or step away if they need to."