Peer support training

At the end of August, I attended a five-day course in intentional peer support (IPS), where practitioners learn to use relationships to see things from new angles, develop greater awareness of personal and relational patterns, and support and challenge each other in trying new things.

Peer support is a specialized form of communication utilized in various regions worldwide, yielding positive outcomes. This approach entails individuals who have undergone training drawing upon both their training and personal encounters with mental health issues to assist those seeking peer support.

I am interested in peer support for mental health, as an increasing number of peers are now employed in hospitals and mental health services overall. This IPS course is beneficial for anyone to participate in, as it primarily emphasizes communication and the significance of individuals supporting each other on a peer-to-peer level.

The course focused on teaching participants how to engage in conversations by actively listening to others instead of offering advice. It emphasized the importance of providing support rather than trying to solve someone's problems. Participants learned to show empathy, refrain from passing judgment, and identify the individual's own needs and desires.

My experience with this course was more therapeutic than I expected. On the last morning, we were prompted to share a short story about our insights from the course. When my turn came, I hesitated initially. However, just before I spoke about my journey, I realized the importance of actively seeking out people for meaningful conversations and communities where I belong.

For the longest time, I've struggled to engage with individuals who may not share my interests. It was pivotal when I recognized the importance of finding communities where I belong, which I discovered following a five-day interaction with people from different backgrounds who were willing to listen and participate in the conversations I enjoy.

The program centred on delving into different worldviews, emphasizing how individuals can interpret things from other perspectives based on their beliefs and experiences. This highlights the importance of realizing that discussions do not necessarily need to be about establishing absolutes.

In the course, we also discussed the importance of sitting with someone and addressing their emotions, whether they are uncomfortable or joyous, in a way that encourages individuals to feel comfortable expressing vulnerability, which allows them to openly discuss any challenges they may be facing without fearing judgment or rejection from those around them.

It was genuinely comforting to be in a secure environment where it was acceptable to share thoughts, even if others didn't share the same views, and where opinions were respected. Knowing that your feelings were valid and that others were genuinely interested in hearing your perspective felt therapeutic.

It is commonly stated that just as a plant cannot thrive in unsuitable conditions, the same holds true for humans. This program lacked analytics or classifications, focusing solely on individuals. I experienced a sense of appreciation and inclusion for my true self. Discovering the right individuals and environment where you feel you fit in is crucial.