07/03/2025
This Fourth of July, the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) wants you to know that there are things we can do to make it an enjoyable holiday for all.
Fireworks, while festive for many, can trigger distressing memories for veterans and service members living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is more common among veterans than in the general population.
WDVA is partnering with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to spread the word about helpful resources and tips this holiday weekend.
Read the full PSA here: https://dva.wi.gov/press/support-veterans-with-ptsd-during-the-4th-of-july/
“I love a Fourth of July celebration, and as a Marine veteran, it’s a powerful way to honor the freedoms we stood to defend,” said WDVA Secretary James Bond. “However, this can be a difficult time for many veterans with PTSD, as well as civilians who don’t know what they’re going through. That’s why WDVA and our partners are committed to providing support, education, and resources.”
“Any veteran who needs help can connect to mental health services through 988 or their county crisis line,” said Wisconsin Department of Health Services Secretary Kirsten Johnson. “We continue to ensure those who serve have the resources they need to be well, and we are proud to support those who fight for the freedoms we all enjoy.”
If you are a veteran in crisis or you are concerned about one, the following resources may help:
• Call 988 and press ‘1’ to get connected to the Veterans Crisis Line for 24/7 confidential crisis support. https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• For local support, Wisconsin County Crisis Lines are staffed by mental health professionals and trained volunteers. https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/crisis/talk.htm -crisis-lines
• The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers helpful tips to manage PTSD during fireworks and for veteran-specific PTSD resources. https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ptsd/index.asp
For these tips and more, see the U.S. VA’s Trauma Reminders: Fireworks. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/fireworks_ptsd.asp