A Systematic Review on Peer Support Services related to the Mental Health Services Utilization for People with Severe Mental Illness

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to systematically review peer support services related to mental health services utilization by people with severe mental illness and to identify core strategies essential for effective peer support services. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using keywords in English, 4 electronic databases, including CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed. Of the 1,305 publications identified, 14 studies were finally included in this systematic review. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) was used for the quality assessment. Results: The 14 studies consisted of 8 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 4 cohort studies, and 2 quasi-experimental studies. Overall, peer support services were found to be effective in reducing hospitalization rates, hospitalization days, number of emergency room visits, and total medical costs. There was inconsistent evidence that the services were associated with positive effects on measures of psychiatric symptoms, quality of life, and social support. Conclusion: Peer support services for people with severe mental illness can be a cost-effective way to increase crisis stabilization and continuity of treatment. The core strategies of the services is the development of structured programs to cultivate professional peer providers and the establishment of a cooperative system between mental health professionals and peer providers.

Effectiveness of Peer Support Programs for Severe Mental Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…Despite the rapid increase in mental illnesses, there remains a shortage of mental health professionals, and societal stigma toward mental health services remains high, impeding continuity and integration of care. For example, in South Korea, despite the existence of policies aimed at deinstitutionalization, the number of psychiatric beds has increased and long-term hospitalization rates remain high [ 54 ]. In this context, peer support workers can serve as valuable resources to enhance access to mental health services for individuals with SMI, facilitate connections to community services for those transitioning from hospital to community care, and strengthen continuity of care.…”

A Review of the Admission System for Mental Disorders in South Korea

“…The national “peer support services” can be activated during inpatient treatment. The role of supporters includes providing information regarding the process of admission and treatment, assisting patients in expressing their opinions about the treatment, helping patients change their admission type, and providing a support system that continues after discharge [ 24 ].…”

Experience of Peer Supporters for Patients with Schizophrenia

“…조현병 환자에게 있어 자신의 증상을 잘 인지하고 약물치료 에 순응하는 일은 매우 중요하며 [4], 조현병 환자가 건강하게 신체적, 정신적, 사회적으로 자립하도록 도울 필요가 있다 [13]. 국내 연구의 경우 동료지원가 활동이 주는 유익함과 필요성 에 대한 연구 [7,9,12,[14][15][16][17]가 속속 발표되고 있다. 동료지원가 의 정체성 연구 [9], 동료지원가의 인턴경험 [12], 동료지원가 활 동에 대한 근거이론적 접근 [14], 동료지원 서비스에 대한 체계 적 문헌고찰 [15], 동료지원가의 희망경험 [16], 동료지원가의 임파워먼트 경험 [17], 동료지원가 교육과정 개발 [18], 동료지 원가 활동 사업의 활성화 방안 [19], 동료지원 서비스의 확대 지 원 필요성 [20]…”

“…을 앓는 대상자들에게 영향력을 주고 있다는 것을 알고 있다[18].원 수혜자 및 제공자들의 정신의료시설 이용률 감소이다[15].선행연구처럼 동료지원 서비스가 응급실 이용의 감소와 비용 절감 효과가 있기에 동료지원 서비스를 회복기 조현병 환자들 에게 적용하는 것은 정신질환 치료와 재발 방지에 매우 희망적…”