Empowering Connections: Healing Through Peer Support

By Saanvi Goel

Mental health disorders, say depression and isolationism are probably the most pressing medical and more societal issues facing the communities worldwide. Mental health which was a taboo topic till not so long ago has become a hot topic after the Covid-19 pandemic after the increasing influence of social media on our lives and greater time for self-introspection. According to a study, close to 15% of deaths worldwide were attributed to mental disorders making it a topic of concern which cannot be overlooked at any cost. 

The question which arises is how can these be prevented and cured. The first step is to seek professional assistance from psychologists. However, this alone is not sufficient, the recovery of a mentally ill person is majorly impacted by the people he and she is surrounded by and interacts with. This is where peer support networks and mutual aid communities come into play. Dealing with mental disorders may develop a sense of low self-esteem. Peer support and mutual aid communities can give them the room to share their experiences and receive unprejudiced feedback for the same. In addition, one might feel comforted and motivated by interacting with individuals who themselves have seen what you have seen and successfully conquered the issues faced by them. This gives a boost to their confidence to combat their illnesses and embark on the path to recovery. It also gives them an opportunity to release their pent up frustration and overcome their feeling of isolation. There are times when one needs to just get things off their chest by just venting it out. These communities act as a viable conduit for the same. These communities also contribute to removing the stigma of mental well being and foster inclusivity and positivity. Although peer counseling and mutual aid is a complement to medical treatment, a few people might consider these to be more feasible and cheaper alternatives. Given the benefits of these community driven approaches, the question now arises about leveraging and popularizing these initiatives. Awareness about the benefits of peer communities of course is important but these can further be made more accessible by creating online forums for such discussion such as webinars, question answer sessions, mobile applications. The individuals can be given more choices such as selecting peer circles according to their requirement and considering their preferences of group discussions or one on one peer sessions. Offline, small centers can be launched specifically for people to build bonds and socialize with others who are facing or have faced mental disorders. This can be through past time activities and hobbies etc. 

All said, successfully leveraging peer groups and mutual aid communities will help in revolutionizing healthcare systems and creating an environment where all can feel confident and a sense of belonging, being of them and being at peace with themselves thereby promoting good humor for all. A start has been made. The need is for more and more people to come out in the open and speak up about it so that they can be guided in the right direction.

By Saanvi Goel