Peer Support Navigator intervention can lead to less hospital admissions, reduced stigma, and increased acceptance & empowerment for individuals experiencing homelessness
This may also assist individuals in achieving long-term recovery from homelessness by addressing the underlying complexities involved with mental health, addictions and substance use, trauma, lack of emotional support, and an overall loss of faith in the healthcare system.
Research shows that peer support programs can:
• Increase understanding of mental health challenges
• Promote socialization, reducing feelings of isolation and alienation that can be associated with mental health conditions
• Help people gain control over their symptoms and reduce hospitalization
• Foster hope and recovery
• Help people learn coping skills and improve resilience
• Promote a better understanding of mental health issues and services for all within an organization
• Create opportunities for increased employee knowledge, awareness and engagement
• Help peers reach goals and improve quality of life
• Provide rewards and further healing for the peer supporter through the experience of listening to and helping others