Search

Copyright of Nordic Magazine for Health Research / Nordisk Tidsskrift for Helseforskning is the property of Universitetet i Tromsoe and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Studies have shown that service users report their encounter with peer supporters as positive. However, little is known about service users' experiences with developing a relationship, working together and collaborate, with peer supporter workers. The aim of this study was therefore, to explore and describe service users' experiences with peer support relationships, support and collaboration. Twenty-six service users with mental health problems and/or substance abuse voluntarily participated in the study. Data was collected through five focus groups interviews in different areas in Norway. The data was analyzed using a hermeneutic content analysis and resulted in three master themes. Overall, these findings reveal that service users deem their relationship and collaboration with peer supporter workers as positive. Furthermore, these findings offer a critical evaluation of peer support, by highlighting challenges related to peer support relationships and collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]