Peer support groups through an experiential lens

Bibliographic Data

ID7148964
AuthorsNeha Agarwal (0009-0000-3273-8331, Manorathi Foundation), Sneha Agarwal (0009-0007-9955-0393, Manhiça Health Research Centre, corresponding author), Udisha Maurya (Manhiça Health Research Centre), Himanshu Kulkarni (0000-0002-7099-6988, Manhiça Health Research Centre)
Year2025
Volume12
Pagese109-e109
Publication date2025-01-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueCambridge Prisms Global Mental Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2054-4251 • E-ISSN: 2054-4251
PublisherCambridge University Press (CUP) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1017/gmh.2025.10061
PMID41080665
OpenAlexW4414846261
LanguageEN
References cited11

Peer support groups are safe spaces that provide an emotionally and socially supportive environment to individuals, along with practical assistance. The three authors run a peer support group in New Delhi, India, for young adults who face mental health challenges. This study explores the processes of group formation, the nature of participant engagement and the evolving dynamics within the group setting. Drawing on firsthand reflections, the article highlights how peer support groups foster emotional safety, narrative autonomy and identity reconstruction through shared lived experiences. It also outlines the practical challenges of facilitation, including managing boundaries, maintaining group cohesion and adapting to diverse participant needs. The article concludes with mentioning arenas of further growth

Autonomy · Experiential learning · Mental health · Narrative · Peer group · Peer support · Support group · Adolescent and Pediatric Healthcare · Mental Health and Patient Involvement · Social Work Education and Practice

Tools

Open DOIOpen Access