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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.