The Hidden Wounds: Understanding and Coping with PTSD in Disaster Survivors

When someone survives a disaster such as a hurricane, earthquake, terrorist attack, or accident, their problems don’t necessarily end when the event does. For many people who have witnessed or experienced a disaster, the symptoms of PTSD become a greater burden than the trauma. Although survivors may be safe, their minds are still struggling with the aftermath. Post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as “PTSD,” is common among disaster survivors. In this article, we’ll explore the challenges of coping with PTSD after a disaster and provide effective strategies for survivors.
Art-Based Self-Expression for Emotional Release

Art-based self-expression can be a powerful tool for facilitating emotional release and promoting healing. Discover how Stars of HOPE can be used as a tool for self-care and support for individuals impacted by trauma. Learn how art-based self-expression can help individuals connect with their emotions and find a sense of peace and clarity. Join us in creating messages of hope and love through our Stars of HOPE program and experience the healing power of art for yourself.
Painting as Therapy: How Stars of Hope is Using Art to Help Trauma Survivors Find Healing and Resilience

Art has long been recognized as a powerful tool for self-expression and healing. For many people, the act of creating art – whether it be through painting, drawing, sculpture, or any other medium – can be a therapeutic and cathartic experience. This is particularly true for individuals who have experienced trauma, as art can provide […]
The Important Role of Being a Survivor Advocate

As a survivor advocate, it is important to be able to connect with people from all walks of life. Oftentimes, survivors need someone to trust, and they may not feel comfortable opening up to others. As an advocate, it is essential that you create a safe and supportive environment for them. This means being patient and understanding while also being assertive when necessary.
How Art Heals Emotional Pain

Note: by using the term ‘art,’ we’re not referring to the entertainment industry or any other form of artistic commercialization. Rather, we discuss art as a tangible bridge between reality and the world of ideas and dreams. Art is a window into our inner worlds. It’s the only way to tell the story of […]
How Creative Play Helps Heal

As adults, creative play is often viewed as a waste of time. However, for children, it’s encouraged and celebrated. Are these two things really so different? Find out how art can actually help to heal the wounds left by trauma.
How to Exercise After A Traumatic Event

If you’ve suffered a traumatic event, exercise can help you heal. Here are some things to remember as you begin your journey towards healing through movement.
Healing Emotional Pain is Possible

Some wounds are impossible to measure. How do you quantify the number of sleepless nights or hours spent crying? While physical wounds can be seen and treated, emotional pain — especially that caused by trauma — can be challenging to repair.
KPMG: Hope Spotlight

In this series, we celebrate organizations that create hope where it’s needed most. Our first spotlight shines on KPMG LLP. A longtime collaborator with Stars of HOPE, KPMG is one of the world’s largest professional services firms. For twenty years — in fact, since our parent organization New York Says Thank You (NYSTY) was founded […]
Five Ways Art Heals Trauma Survivors

In art therapy, it’s the act of creating art that heals, as well as the act of sharing it with others.
Here are five ways that can art heal a trauma survivor: