Lessons from the Field

Abstract

Background: The aim of this research was to explore the lived experience of a mental health peer worker; the thought processes and actions, and the way relationships are built in order to support those with mental health concerns. This article reflects the research journey of a Masters student discovering the skills that underpin her practice as a Peer Support Worker within mental health services of a rural community in Queensland, Australia. 

Methods:  Reflexive writing, storytelling, focus group with key informants

Results:  Seven ‘Letter to Peers’ were written by the first author, reflexively analysed, and discussed during a focus group with key informants.   It was discovered that the key themes from reflexive writing and focus groups are skills used by the peer workforce and their support of people on their mental health recovery journey. 

Conclusions:  Peer workers are skilled in many areas that are used to support another on their recovery journey.  These skills are acquired from their own journey of recovery, through life, and on reflection on the support given to others.  Underpinning the peer practice are skills such as: relationship building, validation, self-care, trauma informed practice, implementation of boundaries, and self-education.

Key words; Autoenthnography, Mental Health Peer Worker, Recovery Journey