Psychological changes through peer support activities by people with mental disorders

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the internal changes in psychological changes that occurred before and after peer support activities by the peer supporters. The subjects were two peer supporters who were engaged in peer support activities at a community activity support center. As a result of qualitative and inductive analysis of the transcriptions, seven categories and 23 sub-categories were extracted.

The following subcategories were extracted: [There was a lack of connection with others and preoccupation with the disease]; [There was a positive change in the way of thinking and feeling about the disease]; [Having a role and being relied upon increased self-efficacy]; [Both the subject and the peer supporter take care of themselves without being overwhelmed]; [A place to feel a connection with others and a place in their hearts leads to recovery]; [Peer support blends into life]; [Peer support activities create a sense of burden and difficulty].

It was found that prior to starting peer support activities, people had little connection with others and were preoccupied with their illnesses, but peer support opportunities were found to lead to recovery and become a part of their lives. However, a sense of burden and difficulty has also arisen, and it is necessary to review the challenges of the peer support system and to consider ways to lower the threshold of the peer support system.