Designing Holidays—and Environments —that Heal, Not Harm

As the holiday season winds down, many of us breathe a sigh of relief. The decorations are packed away, the music fades, and the whirlwind of expenses and obligations comes to an end. Yet, for many, the aftermath brings its own stress—credit card bills, fatigue, and even emotional strain. The truth is, the holiday experience can carry its own form of trauma.

Trauma is far more common than we often acknowledge. Research suggests that over 70% of Americans have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. The American Psychological Association defines trauma as “any disturbing experience that results in significant fear, helplessness, dissociation, confusion, or other disruptive feelings intense enough to have a long-lasting negative effect on a person’s attitudes, behavior, and other aspects of functioning.”

This raises an intriguing question: What if we could design environments—whether for holidays, workplaces, or communities—that reduce trauma and even promote healing?

Despite its prevalence, trauma often goes untreated. Few who experience it receive the help they need. This gap inspired Janet Roche and Christine Cowart to take action. After meeting as volunteers at Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, they recognized the need for trauma-informed training for those working with vulnerable populations. In 2019, they co-founded the Trauma-Informed Design Society (TIDS) with a mission:

“To create physical spaces that promote safety, well-being, and healing—spaces that respect identity, worth, and dignity, and foster empowerment.”

On the latest episode of Experience by Design, we explore their framework for designing environments that minimize harm and support recovery. Janet and Christine share real-world applications—from correctional facilities to schools—and highlight Oregon’s recent mandate for trauma-informed behavioral health units, which has driven demand for their credentialing programs and continuing education courses.

Today, TIDS offers a suite of resources, including:

• Trauma-Informed Design Credentialing Courses
• Partnerships with the American Society of Interior Designers
• An evaluation tool for K-12 schools

Their next course begins January 31st. Learn more at https://www.tidsociety.com.

Janet Roche: linkedin.com/in/janetrochedesigns

Christine Cowart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-cowart-trauma-informed-consultant/