The emerging field of peer support within mental health services

St George, L. C., O'Hagan, M., Bradstreet, S. and Burge, M. (2017) The emerging field of peer support within mental health services. In: Smith, M. and Jury, A. F. (eds.) Workforce Development Theory and Practice in the Mental Health Sector. IGI Global: Hershey, pp. 247-249. ISBN 9781522518747 (doi: 10.4018/978-1-5225-1874-7.ch011)

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Publisher's URL: http://www.igi-global.com/book/workforce-development-theory-practice-mental/166923

Abstract

The Centre for Medicaid Services has identified that “peer support services are an evidence-based mental health model of care” (2007, August 15, p. 1). Although an evidence-based practice, peer support remains an emerging discipline in mental health. Peer supporters help individuals seeking mental wellness by inspiring hope, using their recovery story, and by developing mutual relationships. Peer supporters believe in each individual's ability to recover. They know recovery is possible, because they have experienced it themselves. Understanding what peer support is, and how peer supporters work within their unique discipline is important to those wishing to include peer supporters in their service systems. Peer support is more than simply sharing stories; systems guided by licensing requirements and quality management teams require effective, well-trained individuals, with lived experience to work within peer support. With effective training, and a strong footing in their own recovery, peer supporters can be exceptional contributors within behavioral health systems of care.

Item Type:Book Sections
Additional Information:Author contributed to Chapter 11, The emerging field of peer support within mental health services, pp. 222-251 in Appendix 2.
Status:Published
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Bradstreet, Dr Simon
Authors: St George, L. C., O'Hagan, M., Bradstreet, S., and Burge, M.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
Publisher:IGI Global
ISBN:9781522518747
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