Creating a Supportive Environment: Peer Support Groups for Psychotic Disorders

Schizophr Bull. 2015 Nov;41(6):1211-3. doi: 10.1093/schbul/sbv113. Epub 2015 Aug 20.

Abstract

People with psychotic disorders frequently experience significant mental and social limitations that may result in persisting social isolation. Research has shown that a supportive social environment is crucial for the process of personal recovery. Peer support groups can provide an opportunity to reduce isolation and enhance the process of personal recovery. It encourages people to express their thoughts, feelings, and personal concerns in a peer-to-peer learning environment. Although the importance of peer support groups for various chronic diseases is widely acknowledged, they do not generally form part of routine care for people with psychotic disorders. The evidence base is promising, but the field could benefit from more rigorous, pragmatic trials with follow-up measurements to establish a solid evidence-base. This article briefly reviews the literature and discusses the barriers to implementation of a peer-support learning environment in routine care, as well as ways to overcome these.

Keywords: peer support; psychotic disorders; recovery; schizophrenia; social support.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Peer Group*
  • Psychotic Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Self-Help Groups*
  • Social Environment*
  • Social Support*