What is peer-to-peer support?

Today, many are going through similar situations: deprivation during war, forced emigration due to repression or conflict, lack of safety in their homeland, loss of familiar lifestyles… The list goes on. They all share one thing: the need for help and support.

Support can be sought from the state, non-profit organizations, but it’s also entirely normal to seek support from other people. Not long ago, forming communities and finding solutions together was common practice. Today, we observe that seeking support from others is becoming more challenging. Reasons include shame, fear of judgment, and guilt.

For over 60 years, there has been a movement called ‘peer-to-peer support.’ It originated in the USA within the self-help movement as a response to the limitations of professional assistance and the desire of people to cope with their difficulties independently. People united to receive emotional support, restore a sense of dignity and inner strength through communication with like-minded individuals and through nervous system co-regulation via contact.

Since then, peer-to-peer support has been widely used in various fields where people need support and solidarity.

If you need help and support, you can:

• Create your own group of like-minded individuals who will meet regularly in a convenient format;

• Join an existing community.

To create an effective and supportive environment, the group should have rules:

1. Confidentiality — do not disclose personal information of participants.

2. Respect — honor each other’s opinions and experiences, even if they differ.

3. Safety — any forms of violence, threats, or discrimination are unacceptable.

4. Active listening — listen and truly hear, give everyone the opportunity to speak and be heard.

Rules can be adapted depending on the specific situation and the group’s needs.