The Role of Peer Support in Ending Social Exclusion and Loneliness-Presentation Slides

Presentation Slides

Pdf Summary

This document is from an initiative by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) called the Clinical Support System for Serious Mental Illness (CSS-SMI). It discusses the role of peer support in ending social exclusion and loneliness. Loneliness and social exclusion have negative effects on psychiatric and physical health, and have been linked to various disorders and early mortality. On the other hand, social connections have positive effects on overall health, including stress reactions and psychological well-being. Strong social connections can lead to increased longevity, a stronger immune system, faster recovery from disease, and better mental health. People who feel connected to others have lower levels of depression and anxiety. Lack of social connections and loneliness predict vulnerability to disease and death. Feelings of social exclusion, loneliness, and self-stigma are subjective and influenced by culture and personal variables. Culture affects attitudes about mental health problems, which in turn affect individuals' feelings of exclusion and loneliness. Stigma and self-stigma related to mental illness create a challenge for the provision of care, and lack of access to care and social marginalization result in isolation and loneliness. Peer support can play a crucial role in reducing stigma, promoting social connection, and fostering community integration. The document also highlights resources and initiatives, such as the Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion, that provide tools and programs for peer support and community engagement. The importance of addressing social exclusion and loneliness is emphasized for the well-being and overall health of individuals with serious mental illness.

Keywords

American Psychiatric Association

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Clinical Support System for Serious Mental Illness

CSS-SMI

Peer support

Social exclusion

Loneliness

Psychiatric health

Physical health

Community integration