Fourth of July celebrations can be stressful for people with PTSD, but veterans can get assistance

Bismarck, North Dakota – For many people, the Fourth of July can be a beautiful and enjoyable occasion, but those who have PTSD may find the loud, dazzling light displays to be especially distressing.

Robert Olzweski wants to let his fellow veterans know that there are services available to assist them if they are experiencing PTSD over the Christmas season.

”Yes, I’m a veteran with almost 40 years, 6869, I was in Vietnam. I’m a combat veteran, I also received a Purple Heart over in Vietnam. And in 2003, I went over to Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan and Uzbekistan,” said Olzweski.

He thinks that many veterans may experience triggers on July 4th.

”Definitely, but I pretty much-held everything in. So, I didn’t really pay that much attention to it. I just kind of shied away from it. When a family did fireworks or something, I just kind of stayed in the back, and they knew what was going on and stuff like that,” said Olzweski.

He claims that the services are helpful despite his struggles throughout the vacation.

”I think one of the most important things is to be with their families because if the veterans don’t have any families or anybody to talk to. But family is very, very important. And for what they went through, sacrifices that they made,” said Olzweski.

He asserts that it’s critical to establish a line of contact and to make sure they feel supported.

”Veterans that need help, but they had a bad situation. They just don’t want to talk about it,” said Olzweski.

He claims the ambiance at the Bismarck Vet Center is excellent for making veterans feel supported.

He invites all veterans to attend the Veteran Stand Down event, which will be held at the Amvets Club on August 24. There will be between 30 and 40 booths, food, and tons of help connecting veterans with resources.