News

Navigating Discomfort in the Peer Relationship practice guide

The second in a series of four guides with practical tips, based on the experiences of peer supporters, groups and services across Scotland.

This practice guide focuses on navigating discomfort in peer relationships. Discomfort is not only common, both for the peer supporter and the people supported, but also an expected and important part of the work!

Discomfort in peer relationships is a learning experience because it reveals personal and relational dynamics that may otherwise go unnoticed. It can be a sign that something important is going on. Maybe it’s a boundary being pushed, a past experience being activated or a need not being met. Noticing discomfort and taking time to understand it can create space for more open conversations, shared understandings, meaningful support and respectful relationships.

Developed as part of the Creating Hope with Peer Support project. The practice guides are designed to help build confidence and skills in offering peer support to people affected by suicide. They also work as standalone tools, perfect for anyone involved in mental health peer support groups and services.

Practice guide 2 complements the Creating Hope with Peer Support resource and relates to the Explore stage of the Creating Hope with Peer Support Pathway (Connect, Explore, Hope, Support). It focuses on navigating discomfort in the peer relationship.