Effects of peer-delivered self-management, recovery education interventions for individuals with severe and enduring mental health challenges: A meta-analysis

Abstract

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: The paradigm shifts in the conceptualization of recovery have led to a wide adoption of peer-delivered self-management interventions among individuals with severe and enduring mental health challenges. Peers with experiential knowledge on managing their own mental health conditions act as role models for affected individuals. WHAT THE PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: The meta-analysis demonstrated significant small-to-medium effects favouring such interventions on symptom severity, self-perceived recovery, hopefulness and empowerment. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: With peer-delivered self-management interventions, individuals with severe and enduring mental health challenges could self-direct their care, thus reducing their reliance on service providers. Individuals with severe and enduring mental health challenges equipped to seek their recovery within the community beyond institutional care, regaining independence and gradually reintegrate into society. ABSTRACT: Introduction The shift in mindset within mental health care has led to the adoption of peer-delivered self-management interventions in promoting recovery among individuals with severe and enduring mental health challenges. However, no reviews have hitherto examined their effectiveness. Aim To determine the effectiveness of peer-delivered self-management interventions in improving symptom severity, self-perceived recovery, hopefulness and empowerment. Method A search was performed in nine English databases for published studies and grey literature from inception to the 5 January 2021. The methodological quality of the studies was graded with the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tools. The overall effects were pooled through a meta-analysis with heterogeneity evaluated via the chi-square test and I-square statistics. This review was guided by the PRISMA 2020 statement on transparent reporting of systematic review and meta-analyses. Results Seventeen publications involving 3189 participants were included in this review, and ten were included for the meta-analysis and accounted for 2725 participants. The meta-analysis demonstrated significant small-to-medium effects favouring such interventions on symptom severity, self-perceived recovery, hopefulness and empowerment. Discussion Peer-delivered self-management interventions should be implemented as it is effective in promoting recovery among individuals with severe and enduring mental health challenges. Implications for practice With peer-delivered self-management interventions, individuals with severe and enduring mental health challenges could self-direct their care and reduce their reliance on service providers.

Keywords: enduring mental health challenges; peer-led; recovery; recovery education; self-management.