A 'peer' is defined as a person who is equal to us—for example, in age, ability, social status, or background (1;2). Our peers are an important feature of our daily lives. Over the years, they can be our classmates, colleagues, teammates, walking buddies, those who share the same interests as us, and more. Sometimes, our peers are the individuals we turn to when celebrating the best of times and the ones we lean on during the worst of times. The latter is particularly true. Most if not all of us can recall a point in our lives where we sought support from our peers while undergoing hardship, such as a health issue or struggles with behaviours that can have negative implications for our health. Support from those undergoing a similar experience or time in their lives seems like it would be beneficial, especially because these individuals can understand and empathize with what is happening, provide guidance and advice based on their own lived experience, and encourage us to move forward on our own journey (3;4).
But what does the research have to say about leaning on our peers? Here are just a few of the evidence-based benefits of seeking peer support. Click on the links below to learn more.
Millions of Canadians smoke cigarettes (5). Unfortunately, despite the health risks that accompany this activity—such as cancer, heart disease, and early death—quitting is no easy feat (6). One strategy people who smoke can use, either alone or in combination with other treatment options like medication or nicotine replacement therapy, is group therapy or support programs (7;8). Research indicates that engaging in these group-based programs makes you 50% to 130% more likely to successfully quit smoking in comparison to self-help (e.g., getting literature on smoking cessation) (7).
Almost six million Canadians engage in heavy drinking, which makes them more susceptible to developing alcohol use disorder—a condition with negative effects on one’s cognitive, emotional, and physical health (9-11). Research shows that compared to other well-established treatments, standardized peer-led Alcoholics Anonymous/professionally-led Twelve-Step Facilitation programs are better at increasing abstinence in adults battling alcohol use disorder, alcohol abuse, or alcohol dependence. In fact, those who engage in these generally free and easily accessible programs are 3% to up to 42% more likely to abstain from alcohol use (12).
Over 2.4 million Canadians have diabetes, with type 2 diabetes being the most common form of the disease (13;14). Research illustrates that peer support may help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, compared to standard diabetes care. Features of effective peer support include having more frequent support sessions (e.g., a minimum of one to two a month) and receiving one-on-one support vs. group support or a combination of both (4). This strategy may be most effective in people with poor blood sugar control (4;15).
Despite the clear health benefits, one in four adults don’t get an enough exercise (16). For older adults, financial, physical, and social barriers, in addition to feeling that their needs are not met by recreational facilities, and the disconnect with those who lead exercise programs due to age gaps may contribute to this lack of physical activity (17-20). Research demonstrates that peer-led exercise programs and peer-support programs may improve adherence to physical activity in older adults (17).
Adapting peer support in times of pandemic
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic and measures put in place to control it, utilizing in-person peer support programs or services may not be possible or recommended at this time. On the bright side, these types of programs and services can be delivered and accessed virtually through telephones, smartphones, computers, tablets, videoconferencing tools, and mobile applications.