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Peer support specialists bring hope by sharing their experiences and promoting a sense of belonging.
Peer support is effective.
- Improves quality of life.
- Improves whole health, including conditions like diabetes.
- Improves engagement and satisfaction with services and supports.
- Decreases hospitalizations and inpatient stays.
- Reduces health care costs.
Peer support has existed in the behavioral health field for decades; however, its rapid growth in recent years in due to the increasing evidence supporting its effectiveness.
What are peer support specialists?
Peer support specialist use their experience to:
- Establish positive rapport.
- Serve as a pro-social model.
- Offer insight to the individual’s care team.
- Provide support focused on advocacy, coaching, and mentoring.
Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential.
Health: Choices that support one’s overall well-being.
Home: A safe and stable place to live.
Purpose: Meaningful daily activities, such as job, school, or volunteering.
Community: Relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship and love.