A Message from the Director

Dear San Bernardino County Family,
 
As we exit June, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, and celebrate Independence Day and the birth of our nation, remember that the Fourth of July is a time when well-intentioned fireworks can trigger and increase feelings of anxiety, sadness, fear, and painful memories for persons who have been impacted by trauma. This really applies to all of us as we live in a new normal of COVID19 and social unrest.
 
Below are suggestions that may help:
 

• Stay in and make a plan - Prepare in advance by practicing calming strategies such as finding a quiet place, using noise canceling headphones/ear buds, listening to music, or prayer/meditation. If you do go out, plan an exit strategy in the event you begin to feel uncomfortable, wear a mask and social distance.

 

• Talk with others - Giving your family, friends and/or neighbors a quick heads up before they start celebrating with fireworks can help. You can choose how much information to share, but the message really is that if they are planning to set off fireworks to please advise you ahead of time so you can be ready.

 

• Acclimate now - Many of us have experienced fireworks more often and earlier this year, but for those who haven’t, get yourself used to loud noises by popping corn and bouncing a ball in the house.

 
These are unprecedented times, and feeling on edge, especially now, is normal. The important thing is to take care of yourself and pay attention to your stress level which may be particularly high. As always, thank you for all that you do every day for the people we serve and for each other!
 
Dr. Veronica Kelley
​Director