The STAR Loop Model

(Sleep–Trauma Adaptive Recovery)

We developed the STAR Loop Model to explain how sleep and trauma recovery are deeply connected, and why sleep must sit at the trauma recovery table, not on the sidelines.

When children and caregivers begin to sleep even a little better, their nervous systems settle. Emotions feel more manageable, and trauma work becomes safer. As night gradually feels less threatening, sleep can deepen again, creating a positive loop that supports lasting recovery.

The model brings together findings from sleep science, PTSD research, and affective neuroscience into one practical framework that frontline workers, clinicians, and services can use.

Download the STAR Loop concept paper (Zenodo)

1. Sleep Improves

Body and brain can downshift.

Amygdala fires less and prefrontal control increases.

 

2. Regulation Increases

Emotions become easier to hold.

A little more bandwidth for daily life.

Safety cues are easier to notice and trust.

3. Processing Improves

Trauma feels safer to face and process.

Hyperarousal drops a notch.

Safety signals are easier to access.

Nighttime feels less threatening.

How better sleep and safer trauma work reinforce each other

Video 1: Why Sleep Matters in Trauma Recovery 

Hello! You’re receiving this because your shelter is part of the Dreaming Beyond Trauma™ initiative—a national project designed to support children and families in crisis accommodation to gently improve sleep and long-term healing.

Thank you for the incredible work you do.

We know your time and energy are precious, so we’ve made this mini-training short, supportive, and easy to complete in one sitting (30 minutes), for 1 CPD Point.

What’s Included

Video 1: Why Sleep Matters in Trauma Recovery
Video 2: Introducing Sleep Packs + Practical Tools
Quiz: Sleep Support Knowledge Check
Certificate of Completion (1 CPD point)

This is your chance to learn the why behind the initiative and gain simple tools that will make a real difference in your day-to-day work. Let’s get started!

Our STAR Loop Model

Completion Quiz: Sleep Support Knowledge Check

Thank you for taking part in this training.

To finalise your participation, all staff are required to complete this short quiz. It confirms you’ve completed the full training and helps ensure the initiative runs smoothly and has the greatest possible impact

Once complete, your Certificate of Completion (1 CPD Point) will be emailed to you.

Complete the short quiz

Let’s keep dreaming big together

Thank you for completing this training.

Your role in making sleep a pillar of recovery is needed.

If you have any questions or reflections, we’d love to hear from you.

contact us