Trauma-Informed Content Design

Episode Summary In this groundbreaking episode, host Yuval Keshtcher speaks with Megan Legawiec about the emerging field of trauma-informed content design. They explore how digital products can be designed with awareness of user trauma, making experiences safer and more accessible for everyone. Megan explains the core principles, shares practical examples, and offers resources for designers looking to implement these practices. Check out our free content design courseIntroductionYuval introduces Megan Legawiec, a senior content designer who has worked in real estate, cybersecurity, and AIThey explain this is a dedicated episode on trauma-informed content design after briefly discussing it in a previous recordingOriginated in psychotherapy with 5-7 guiding principlesAdapted first to physical spaces through architectural guidelinesNow being applied to digital spaces where people spend significant timeApproximately 70% of the world's population will experience a traumatic event in their lifetimeAn estimated 5-8% develop PTSDApplies to all digital experiences, not just mental health applicationsExamples include:SafetyTrustworthiness and TransparencyPeer Support, Collaboration, and MutualityEmpowerment and ChoiceCultural, Historical, and Gender ConsiderationsBuilds trust with usersCreates more loyal user baseMakes experiences accessible to more peopleCorrelates with best practices in UX designCan be implemented incrementallyBooks:Training:Megan responds to audience questions from LinkedIn about implementation strategiesYuval teases an upcoming live conference in Europe (September 2025)Produced by the UX Writing HubWhat is Trauma-Informed Content Design?Key ApplicationsCore Tenets of Trauma-Informed DesignBusiness Case for ImplementationRecommended ResourcesClosing