[Everything can - nothing must? Peer support on acute psychiatric wards].

Abstract

Peer support is recommended for improving acute psychiatric care, but research is lacking. This qualitative study examines the impact, particularly on coercive measures, through semi-structured interviews with four peers, four patients, and twelve (non-peer) staff members from two acute psychiatric wards. Analysis shows that peers experience unique opportunities and challenges in this context. Their effects include mediating between patients and the team, normalizing daily activities on the wards, promoting social interactions, fostering understanding and trust through shared experiences, as well as instilling hope and self-efficacy. Other staff members benefit from the exchange of patient information, task delegation, increased awareness of stigmatization, and promotion of a recovery-oriented mindset. While peers do not directly influence coercive measures, they contribute to de-escalation. Specific framework conditions are necessary.