PEER SUPPORT Meaning and
Definition
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Peer support refers to a form of assistance, guidance, and encouragement provided by individuals who share similar experiences or circumstances. It is a mutual process where people with firsthand knowledge of a particular issue or challenge come together to offer emotional, social, and practical support to one another.
In the context of mental health, peer support involves individuals who have lived through similar mental health struggles coming together to provide support and empowerment to their peers. This can take place in various settings such as support groups, online forums, or one-on-one interactions. Peer support creates a non-judgmental and understanding environment where individuals can openly share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and ultimately foster resilience and recovery.
Moreover, peer support aims to enhance well-being, self-esteem, and self-acceptance by leveraging the commonality of experience among peers. It promotes the idea that lived experience can be a valuable resource for personal growth and understanding. Peers typically offer empathetic listening, validation, and practical advice, while emphasizing the importance of self-determination and autonomy in the recovery process.
Overall, peer support serves as a fundamental pillar in mental health care, complementing professional services by offering lived experience-based assistance. By fostering a sense of belonging, connection, and empowerment, peer support not only helps individuals manage their challenges but also promotes a sense of community and resilience within the broader society.
Etymology of PEER SUPPORT
The term "peer support" is relatively recent and its etymology is straightforward. The word "peer" originates from the Old French word "per", meaning "equal" or "companion". It eventually evolved into Middle English as "peer", referring to a person of the same rank or status. The term "support" comes from the Latin word "supportare", meaning "to carry, convey, or sustain". It was later adopted into Old French as "support", which then entered Middle English. When combined, "peer support" denotes the activity of individuals of the same or similar backgrounds, experiences, or situations providing assistance, guidance, and understanding to one another.
