Peer Support for Mental Health
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new approach called Peer Support for Whole Health, which aims to help Veterans improve their mental well-being and daily life. Veterans who have overcome mental health or substance use issues deliver the program, offering support to others facing similar challenges. Participants will either receive this peer support or information about Whole Health resources. The program targets Veterans not currently in mental health treatment but experiencing difficulties with relationships, work, or daily tasks. Veterans enrolled in primary care who have noted behavioral health concerns might find this program suitable. As an unphased trial, this study provides Veterans with a unique opportunity to explore innovative support methods for enhancing their well-being.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on peer support for mental health and does not mention medication changes.
What prior data suggests that this intervention is safe for Veterans?
Research has shown that peer support treatments, such as Peer Support for Whole Health, are generally safe. Studies have found that most people handle these programs well. One study mentioned a small risk of triggering self-harm, but this was rare. Overall, peer support is viewed as a helpful addition to mental health care, improving outcomes without major side effects. Participants often report feeling better supported and understood. While some risks exist, the benefits are significant, and the treatment is considered safe for most people.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Peer Support for Whole Health trial because it uses veteran-to-veteran support to address mental health, which is a fresh approach compared to traditional therapy or medication. Unlike standard options like medication or individual therapy, this method leverages shared experiences to foster trust and understanding, potentially leading to more meaningful engagement and improved mental well-being. Additionally, the Self-Directed Whole Health arm empowers veterans by providing them with tools and resources to manage their own health, promoting a sense of autonomy and self-care. This dual approach aims to enhance overall well-being by integrating mental health support with holistic health practices.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for improving Veterans' mental health and well-being?
Research has shown that Peer Support for Whole Health, a treatment in this trial led by Veterans with similar mental health or substance use experiences, is promising. One study found that participants' PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) symptoms improved over time. This program also helps Veterans enhance their relationships, work, and daily life by fostering a sense of belonging and understanding. Additional research suggests that peer support can be a valuable mental health service, offering benefits that traditional programs might not. Overall, these findings indicate that this peer-based approach can effectively boost mental well-being and life satisfaction for Veterans. Meanwhile, another arm of this trial evaluates the effectiveness of Self-Directed Whole Health, where participants receive information about Whole Health tools and resources.15678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Emily M. Johnson, PhD
Principal Investigator
Syracuse VA Medical Center, Syracuse, NY
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for Veterans who are struggling with daily life, work, or relationships and may have mental health or substance use issues. It's aimed at those not currently engaged in treatment for these concerns but receiving primary care. Participants should be willing to receive support from peers who have similar experiences.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Peer Support for Whole Health or Self-Directed Whole Health intervention
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Peer Support for Whole Health
- Self-Directed Whole Health
Trial Overview
The study tests 'Peer Support for Whole Health,' where recovered Veterans offer guidance based on the Whole Health model, focusing on values and self-care across all life areas. The goal is to improve participants' psychosocial functioning and overall well-being.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
In this arm, Veteran participants will receive Peer Support for Whole Health from VA peer support staff.
In this arm, Veteran participants will receive information about Whole Health tools and resources from research staff.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Evaluating the Impact of a Peer Support Program on ... - PMC
We observed improvements in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms over time. We observed additional benefits among those who received an ...
NCT07387692 | Peer Support for Whole Health for Veterans
Peer Support for Whole Health is designed to help Veterans who have difficulty with their relationships, work, or day-to-day life and may have behavioral health ...
"The Experiences of Veterans Seeking Peer-to-Peer Support ...
Findings revealed that peer-to-peer support fostered a sense of belonging and understanding, which veterans often find lacking in traditional mental health ...
Peer support: Research and reports
Mental Health America has compiled a database of current research related to the support of peers as a needed and beneficial paid services in mental health ...
Utilization and outcomes of a Whole Health model of care ...
The aim of this project was to investigate utilization and outcomes of WH programming among Veterans with psychiatric disorders.
Effectiveness, acceptability and potential harms of peer ... - PMC
The most commonly perceived risk associated with peer support was the potential for triggering self-harm. Conclusions. Our findings highlighted a range of ...
Peer Support Issue Brief | AHA
Peer Support Specialists expand the non-clinical workforce to improve patient experience and outcomes and reduce clinical staff burnout.
8.
library.samhsa.gov
library.samhsa.gov/product/peer-support-specialist-growing-mental-health-and-addictions-workforce/pep24-08-005Peer Support Specialist: A Growing Mental Health and ...
This brief report presents self-reports of recovery among adults aged 18 and older in the United States who thought they ever had a problem with ...
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