Peer recovery hub

What is mental health peer support?

Peer support is powerful and it works. It’s a mutual relationship where people with shared experiences support each other especially as they move through challenging times.

Lived experience is part of the solution

Peer support exists in different forms such as peer support groups and paid peer workers in mental health services. But all peer support is rooted firmly in hope, sharing experiences and an intentional relationship. Through this relationship people explore together and work towards recovery.

Through peer support people living with mental health challenges are seen as part of the solution. They have a significant and active role to play in supporting their own and others’ recovery. Walking alongside someone who understands, who ‘gets it’ helps people to feel less alone. It offers them the opportunity to explore their feelings and what will help them live the life they choose.

When I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder 30 years ago there was no such thing as a Peer Worker. If I had had access to one back then my recovery would have been quicker and less solitary and stressful. We have come a long way since then, but I feel there is much room for expansion within our field of expertise.

Richard, Peer Worker, Bipolar Scotland