10/08/2025
A recent article in the Associated Press highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by children and teens in Maui, two years after the devastating wildfires. An estimated one-third of students lost a family member, sustained an injury, or had a parent lose a job in the wildfires; to this day, many students cope with displacement, grief, lack of stability, and other uncertainties. The trauma of this event had a significant impact on many, continuing to shape their daily lives. The direct fallout, in addition to the lack of available mental health specialists and resources, has led to many of these students experiencing mental health struggles, academic challenges, behavioral issues, and more.
This story is an important reminder that trauma does not end when the crisis does. Traumatic events, such as fire or other natural disasters, leave a lasting impact on the minds, bodies, and communities of those who experienced them. Responding only in the immediate aftermath of a crisis is not enough. Effective trauma-informed care provides ongoing support that fosters lasting healing, resilience, and the ability to thrive well beyond the immediate crisis.
At Blue Rose, we believe that trauma-informed care must be:
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Sustained: Proper support must go beyond the โemergency phaseโ and continue for years, as people live with the effects of trauma long after the event itself occurs.
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Holistic: Healing happens not just in therapy sessions but in classrooms, homes, and neighborhoods. Having a strong support system beyond counseling is essential for recovery.
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Culturally responsive: Solutions must honor the unique identity, values, and traditions of the communities they serve.
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Proactive: Early detection and intervention can prevent trauma from hardening into long-term behavioral health struggles.
Healing in the face of disaster and trauma takes time, trust, and resources. For truly resilient communities, itโs essential to invest in care systems that support the long-term well-being of trauma survivors. With proper trauma-informed care, survivors can heal more deeply, regain stability, and thrive long after the crisis has passed.
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