Using Peer Support to Empower Self-Management and Participation in Treatment for Individuals Who are Difficult to Engage-Presentation Slides

Presentation Slides

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The document is a summary of a webinar focused on using peer support to empower self-management and participation in treatment for individuals who are difficult to engage. The webinar is part of the Clinical Support System for Serious Mental Illness (CSS-SMI) initiative, funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and implemented by the American Psychiatric Association (APA).<br /><br />The webinar discusses the challenges individuals with mental health problems face in seeking and continuing treatment. Lack of trust in the formal system of care, previous negative experiences, and perceived lack of control can lead to disengagement or refusal of treatment. Specific populations, such as young adults, street homeless individuals, and Black Americans, face additional barriers in accessing and utilizing behavioral health services.<br /><br />Peer support is highlighted as a valuable approach to address these challenges and improve engagement in treatment. Peer support workers, who have lived experience with mental illness, can establish trusting relationships, provide support and empowerment, and promote self-management and activation. Peer support has been found to positively impact engagement and adherence to treatment, as well as improve outcomes and reduce hospitalizations and emergency department use.<br /><br />The webinar emphasizes the importance of building trust and a good rapport between peer supporters and individuals seeking help. Openness, shared experience, and acceptance of personal expertise are key in establishing a therapeutic alliance. Additionally, peer support can enhance motivation and activation for self-management, leading to increased participation in treatment.<br /><br />Overall, the webinar highlights the effectiveness of peer support in engaging individuals who are difficult to reach and empowering them to take an active role in their own treatment.

Keywords

peer support

self-management

participation in treatment

difficult to engage

Clinical Support System for Serious Mental Illness

challenges in seeking treatment

barriers in accessing behavioral health services

trust in formal system of care

improved outcomes

therapeutic alliance