Peer Specialists: Enriching the Crisis Continuum-Presentation Slides

Presentation Slides

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This document is a presentation on the integration of Peer Specialists into crisis systems as part of the Clinical Support System for Serious Mental Illness (CSS-SMI) initiative. The presentation provides an overview of the 9-8-8 crisis system, which is designed to enhance the current system's ability to respond to behavioral health crises. The 9-8-8 system includes a variety of crisis response options such as peer-run warm lines, mobile crisis response teams, crisis stabilization units, and outpatient peer support.<br /><br />The presentation highlights the value of Peer Specialists in crisis intervention, prevention, and diversion. Research findings suggest that integration of Peer Specialists in crisis programs leads to lower rates of hospitalization, reduced health expenditures, lowered arrest rates, and increased effectiveness in suicide prevention interventions. Peer Specialists also contribute to lower utilization of emergency/crisis services, reduced feelings of isolation, and higher consumer satisfaction.<br /><br />The roles of Peer Specialists in different components of the crisis continuum are outlined. In crisis contact centers, Peer Specialists provide support through phone, text, and chat services. Mobile crisis teams benefit from the presence of Peer Specialists in building rapport, instilling hope, and connecting individuals to resources. Crisis stabilization units and crisis service centers can employ Peer Specialists to provide support and link individuals to community resources. Outpatient peer support programs offer peer support models, crisis prevention plans, and enhanced support.<br /><br />The unique roles of Peer Specialists in the crisis continuum are identified, including recovery modeling, infusing hope, engagement, and access to recovery support. The presentation concludes with a list of references for further reading.<br /><br />Overall, the presentation emphasizes the importance of integrating Peer Specialists into crisis systems to enhance the outcomes and experiences of individuals experiencing mental health crises.

Keywords

Peer Specialists

crisis systems

9-8-8 crisis system

behavioral health crises

mobile crisis response teams

crisis stabilization units

outpatient peer support

suicide prevention interventions

reduced utilization of emergency services

recovery support