Chapter Seven: Peer Helpers and Unpaid Caregivers Flashcards
What are peer helpers?
People who form relationships with others who share a common concern or experience to provide support, information, and physical assistance.
Why are peer helpers important?
People can connect with others, accept and cope with challenges, learning problem-solving skills, and help with making tough decisions.
What are the benefits for peer helpers?
They can be empowered to solve their own problems, enhanced self esteem and feelings of worth, and more physical and mental energy.
What was the first peer support service in Canada?
The Mental Patients Society in Vancouver in 1971.
Why is peer support important today?
Social trends and shrinking social welfare budgets.
What are self-help groups?
Non-professional networks of people with a common experience or concern.
What do self-help groups do?
Pool resources, exchange information, and provide mutual support.
What is the difference between self-help groups and peer support groups?
Self-help groups provide personal storytelling and emotional or practical support. Peer support groups discuss, implement skill-building exercises, and exchange information.
What advantages do online self-help groups have compared to face-face self help groups?
There is no need to worry about meeting space, transportation, child care, or identity.
What are peer counsellors?
Volunteers who use natural helping skills and basic counselling skills to help people deal with challenges.
Why are peer counsellors helpful?
They help people develop confidence, and self-esteem, effective coping strategies, and deal with difficult feelings.
What kind of training do peer counsellors receive?
Training based on counselling theory and experiential learning. They also receive ongoing supervision.
What kinds of assistance do unpaid caregivers provide?
Helping with daily tasks, emotional and social support, and personal care.
What is the sandwich generation?
Middle-aged adults who care for both dependent children and older relatives.
What is caregiver strain?
The potential emotional, physical, or financial consequences of caring for another person for an extended period of time.
