Experiences and Challenges in the Role as Peer Support Workers in a Swedish Mental Health Context - An Interview Study.
Issues Ment Health Nurs
; 43(4): 344-355, 2022 Apr.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-34569894
ABSTRACT
The focus on recovery within psychiatric care is increasing, where peer support may play a pivotal role. Previous research shows both mixed and promising results in terms of beneficial outcomes for patients and peer support workers (PSW). The study's aim was to investigate PSW' experiences of their professional role and associated relationships with healthcare staff and patients. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 PSW. Data was analyzed with content analysis. Three themes were constructed; "Experience of stigma", "Authenticity and balance in the patient relationship" and "Opportunities and setbacks in the team". Challenges included stigmatization, loyalty conflicts, lack of a clear job description and feelings of insecurity and disinterest among other staff. However, the peer support role was perceived as deeply meaningful. The peer support role comes with challenges and opportunities for the PSW, and potentially for the patients and the surrounding work team. Further research is needed to illuminate the value of peer support for patients, PSW and healthcare staff, and potential barriers and facilitators to the integration of peer support within psychiatric care.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https//doi.org/10.1080/01612840.2021.1978596 .
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Mental Health
/
Mental Health Services
Type of study:
Qualitative_research
Limits:
Humans
Country/Region as subject:
Europa
Language:
En
Journal:
Issues Ment Health Nurs
Year:
2022
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Sweden