Advice To Help Veterans And Personnel On Bonfire Night

Fireworks on Bonfire Night last year (Picture: PA).

Advice on how to deal with Bonfire Night and the triggers it can bring has been released by charity, Combat Stress. 

The military charity say it has worked with their 'specialist clinical team' to help make the evening easier.

Step 1: Plan ahead

Combat Stress says the first thing to think about is how you wish to spend the evening, whether that is going out or staying at home. 

The charity explains the evening can be a 'useful opportunity' to ‘break the link’ between current triggers and past traumatic experiences, by focusing on what is different about fireworks and your environment.

However, if being exposed to strong triggers feels too much, then thinking where you will be and having techniques prepared to help you through it is recommended.

Video: Advice for veterans on Bonfire Night - Warning the video includes fireworks and explosions from the start.

Step 2: Identify your triggers

Different people react to fireworks in different ways, according to the charity.

The smell of bonfires can trigger strong emotions and memories, so it is recommended that you carry a different smell to 'bring you back' to the present. This could be a calming smell such as lavender or a strong smell like smelling salts. 

However, it could be the sound and sight of fireworks that cause the trigger.

Combat Stress also says preparing to hear/see the fireworks is important, and that people need to be aware that there are parties using fireworks before and after 5 November. 

Step 3: Breathe 

It is also important that you breathe at a pace you they feel comfortable with, whilst making sure your out-breaths are long and slow.

Combat Stress says this technique can help calm you down during a panic attack, helping to reduce anxiety. 

Step 4: Stay grounded

Methods, known as grounding techniques, are recommended to bring an individual into the here and now and can be useful if they feel zoned out or are getting vivid memories. 

Combat Stress suggests to:

• Notice five things in a room - using each of the senses in turn. 
• Physically grounding yourself - for instance, squats, stamping feet, taking off shoes and rubbing them on the carpet can help you to 'come back' to a room if feeling numb.
• 'Strong' physical positions - standing in a position that makes you feel strong/safe - some people like curling up, others prefer an upright stance.
• Develop a 'grounding image' - a detailed visual picture that can soothe/distract you from a flashback or nightmare. 
• Listen to music - music that gives you calm or positive feelings.

Step 5: Talk

The charity suggests it is useful to tell someone close to you that you may find Bonfire Night difficult. 

Combat Stress also have a free and confidential 24-hour helpline for mental health advice and support.

They can be called on 0800 138 1619 or texted on 07537 404 719. Their email is [email protected].