The Issue:
We have heard from our fellow mental health peers that they would like to see more diversity of when peer support and recovery programs are open. Many people would like to access peer support groups and programming when it works for them and daytime Monday through Friday may work for most but not all. Could peer organizations have some evening hours or weekends?
By offering peer support to individuals, research shows that the need for clinical interventions decreases for those that have had encounter(s) with a peer support specialist.
- Mental Health America: Evidence for Peer Support
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Consumer-Operated Services Evidence-Based Practices (EBP) KIT
Recommendations:
- Support those who may have barriers or responsibilities during the Monday through Friday 9-5 hours by instituting evening and weekend schedules to support individuals, including those that need periodic support.
- Add additional hours or strategically spread the hours of operation to allow for evening and weekend timeframes.
- Maximize peer center capacity to offer flexible availability, including schedules, to further support effectiveness of other services (e.g. peer supports within Receiving Centers).
Expected Outcomes:
Be fully available to the community by offering peer support shifts that reflect the needs of individuals who could or do utilize this vital support system.
Decrease the likelihood of unexpected interventions, including police involvement and emergency department visits.
To submit feedback, ideas, or a personal story relating to this issue statement, please send it to the CCSM office either by mail at 219 Capitol Street, Suite 7, Augusta, ME 04330, or email at [email protected].
DEADLINE TO RESPOND: Monday, December 11th.
