2024 Volume 13 Issue 3 Pages 186-195
Purpose: This study aimed to clarify the difficulties experienced by peer supporters with mental disorders in consultation support services and factors supporting peer supporter activities.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in nine peer supporters. The results were analyzed qualitatively and descriptively.
Results: The difficulties experienced by peer supporters included “feeling inadequate as a supporter” and “lack of confidence in an individual with a mental disorder as a peer supporter,” which led to “uncertainty about the position of peer supporters.” Factors that supported peer supporter activities included “self-management enabling expected performance” and “working in an environment that recognizes the significance of peer supporters,” leading to “awareness of the significance of peer supporters.” Additionally, “healing their emotional wounds” through consultation support services worked positively for the participants.
Discussion: These findings suggest that professionals should understand the expertise of peer supporters in the workplace and importance of providing a work environment in which peer supporters can demonstrate their expertise in clarifying their position.
