Patriotism and Wellbeing: The 4th of July’s impact On American Mental Health
BY: Neighbors’ Consejo
Independence Day, celebrated every 4th of July, is more than just a national holiday; it’s a powerful symbol of freedom and unity for Americans. This article shows the event’s impact on mental health and overall wellbeing on the American population. Does the surge of national pride during the 4th of July foster a sense of community and individual happiness, or does it also bring about stress and anxiety for some?
The book “Who is a Patriot? Psychological Recolonization and the Proliferation of U.S. Nationalism” asks if US patriotism imposes values or ideals on historically subjugated populations in the US. It calls for a redefinition of the “American Patriot,” straying from the typical notions of patriotism adopted by the far-right.
Additionally, Dusan Kecmanovic in “Nationalism and Mental Health: A Critique of Greenfeld’s Recent Views of Nationalism”, states that the subject lacks research and that few scholars consider nationalism’s effect on mental health.
In The Psychiatric Times, Robert Rivera says that “although holidays are usually a time of celebration and festivities, the crowds, excitement, and fireworks associated with Independence Day may be less welcomed by patients with psychiatric disorders like posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia.”
To continue, “the 4th of July, while festive and exciting for many, can be a source of significant and discomfort for individuals with anxiety, trauma, or PTSD. Common triggers during this holiday include loud noises from fireworks, large and busting crows, and unexpected bursts of sound. For someone with anxiety or trauma, these sensory experiences can be overwhelming leading to heightened stress, panic attacks, or other distressing reactions. Veterans may find this holiday challenging. The loud explosions of fireworks can mimic the sounds of combat, triggering painful memories and flashbacks.”
What can we do? The July 4th holiday weekend offers a bit of time to enhance our state of mind. A formal vacation out of town or a staycation at home can bring some mental relief. = Roger Rivera considers, “for patients with other anxiety disorders, particularly those who have issues with crowds, several strategies can be beneficial. Planning, once again, is important. Encourage patients to choose less crowded places and times for outings to manage anxiety. For example, visiting popular locations early in the morning or on weekdays can help avoid large crowds.” In conclusion, the 4th of July is meant to celebrate the nation’s independence and foster a sense of unity and pride. However, this holiday also presents complex challenges for mental health. While many Americans experience a sense of joy and communal belonging during the festivities, others may struggle with heightened anxiety, stress, and trauma, particularly those with pre-existing mental health conditions. To mitigate these challenges, it is essential to promote inclusive practices and provide support for those who may find the celebrations overwhelming.
