What is peer recovery support?

Peer recovery support refers to the assistance provided by individuals who have personal experience with mental illness or addiction. This lived experience allows peer supporters to connect authentically with those they are helping, creating a foundation of trust and understanding. Their insights and perspectives enable them to effectively guide others through their recovery journeys, as they can draw from their own experiences and the challenges they have faced.

The unique aspect of peer recovery support is the emphasis on shared experience, which fosters hope and motivation in those seeking recovery. It is not about providing clinical treatments or medical advice, which distinguishes peer support from the role of professional therapists. Furthermore, the role of a family member, while important, is not the same as that of a peer coach, as family members often have different dynamics and emotional relationships with the individual in recovery. Lastly, an individual with no prior recovery experience would lack the necessary understanding and relatability that is crucial for effective peer support, making lived experience a vital component of this role.