FAQs
- What is a peer support group?
- Is peer support the same as therapy?
- Why a men's peer support group?
- What are the benefits of a men's peer support group?
- What is the format of the group?
- What topics does the group focus on?
- What is the time commitment?
What is a peer support group?
A peer support group is when people with similar experiences connect and support each other. It provides the opportunity to listen, share, express feelings, talk about struggles and learn strategies for dealing with day-to-day life.
Note: Peer support groups don’t replace medical professionals and counsellors. They supplement the support you receive.
Is peer support the same as therapy?
There are similarities between the two, in terms of feeling heard and understood.
However, peer support differs in two important ways. Firstly, it is focused on the here and now and near future. Secondly, the focus is on shared experiences and emotional support rather than clinical intervention.
However, peer support differs in two important ways. Firstly, it is focused on the here and now and near future. Secondly, the focus is on shared experiences and emotional support rather than clinical intervention.
Why a men's peer support group?
Research has shown that men, particularly in young adulthood, may be less likely to seek mental health support due to societal expectations around masculinity.
Men, particularly students, are at higher risk for certain mental health issues, including substance misuse, and are more likely to engage in risky behaviours. Male students also face higher rates of suicide.
A gender specific peer support group can create a safe space where male students can talk openly without judgment. It can help address issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness, which can often go unaddressed.
What are the benefits of a men's peer support group?
Benefits include:
- Reducing sense of isolation - recognising you are not alone.
- Receiving and offering support to others in a safe and contained environment - develop compassion for self and others.
- Exploring masculinity-informed constructs to recognise relationships between masculinity-related values and life difficulties - be comfortable in your own skin.
- A supportive space to openly share your personal challenges and experiences – feel heard and understood.
- Develop social skills - project a more confident assertive self.
What is the format of the group?
The group is a mix between open agenda sessions and facilitator-led sessions. Meetings will typically include time for check-in activities, open discussion, sharing of experiences, and any planned activities or topics.
What topics does the group focus on?
Possible topics include:
- Avoidance coping
- Dealing with anger
- Emotional health
- Masculinity
- Motivation
- Relationship issues
- Vulnerability
What is the time commitment?
The men peer support group is an 6-8-week cohort. The groups works best when members are in a position to commit to regular attendance, and to prioritise this commitment over other things which may crop up in their lives.