Trauma can have a profound and lasting impact on health, often leading to chronic conditions such as heart and liver diseases, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression. These issues can arise from health-risk behaviors linked to trauma experienced at any stage of life. It’s crucial to address trauma not just during crises but through ongoing behavioral health care, which can mitigate negative physical outcomes. This care is best delivered in specially designed facilities that cater to both in-patient and out-patient needs, leading to the development of Trauma-Informed Design (TID). TID focuses on creating environments that promote safety, trust, well-being, healing, and privacy, using sensory-sensitive materials to positively influence mood and behavior.
Defining the Concept
TID has gained momentum as architects and interior designers integrate trauma-informed principles into mental health care practices. The goal is to create welcoming spaces that ensure safety and privacy without hindering the assessment and monitoring of clients. TID environments promote safety through de-escalation strategies and sensory-sensitive designs tailored to individuals exposed to trauma. Recognizing the presence and impact of trauma is as important as providing treatment, and it’s vital for providers, architects, and designers to be aware of perceived threats in the environment.
“Finding the right environment is so challenging for individuals dealing with trauma; often the comment is, ‘I can’t handle this space.’ Each individual will have different triggers, and in their experience, it is hard to find safe ground,” said Dr. Nicola Herting, a clinical director at Sanford Center for Biobehavioral Research.
Dr. Herting has discussed with patients the difficulty of spaces that are too quiet, but more often, spaces that are too noisy, which is just the beginning of a problematic sensory scenario. She emphasizes the need for flexible, comfortable environments that visibly portray security and safety. “Never underestimate the importance of furniture and room layout. When it comes to escape paths, consider both the patient and providers,” said Dr. Herting. “Just ensuring that the patient can see the door is important. This is a space of extreme vulnerability… safety and comfort have to be paramount.” Trauma Informed Design is intended to work hand in hand with our clients’ focus on Trauma Informed Care, allowing the building or space to be a tool for delivering holistic care to individual with elevated needs based on past trauma.
Designing with Empathy
Our architects and interior designers rely on credible studies and research to make informed decisions about the built environment, aiming for optimal outcomes. TID guidelines encourage creative solutions for a broad spectrum of trauma, promoting inclusivity and equity. The physical environment is as integral to the program as routines, goals, and staff.
An example of this approach is our work with the Children’s Home Society of South Dakota’s Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility. We involved staff, former residents, and current residents in the design process to tailor solutions to their needs. By adapting spatial layouts and incorporating thoughtful design elements, we aimed to provide children with a sense of control, safety, and comfort.
Seeking Joy
In behavioral health, safety and belonging are crucial, with joy serving as a powerful connector in the human experience. Dr. Nicola Herting emphasizes the importance of sparking joy through carefully placed calming items or creative outlets. This approach allows occupants to control elements in their surroundings, such as lighting and music, enhancing their autonomy.
Design Guidelines
- Aesthetics: Health care spaces should be aesthetically pleasing, with minimal visual complexity. Calming finishes, durable and easy to clean, play a crucial role in the healing environment.
- Lighting: Natural light fosters wellness, and warmer-hued LED lighting can mimic daylight. Acoustics: Balance acoustics to minimize stress, using absorbent finishes and variable sound options.
- Biophilic Design: Incorporate natural elements to reduce stress and promote comfort.
- Distraction Imagery: Use engaging visuals to alleviate stress and improve mood.
- Color Palette: Choose culturally respectful colors, avoiding sensory triggers.
- Furniture: Select flexible, adaptable furniture that supports healing and independence.
- Spatial Layout: Ensure visibility and clear sightlines to alleviate stress.
- Areas of Refuge: Provide flexible spaces for engagement and retreat.
- Staff Respite: Design thoughtful respite spaces for health care workers.
Conclusion
Caring for individuals who have experienced trauma is challenging, but finding joy within the grief is empowering. Through intentional design and humanized spaces, we promote well-being and trust, creating environments that support healing and recovery. The future of health care design focuses on compassion and empathy, finding impactful ways to support the complex journey of healing lifelong trauma.
