Piloting a Peer Support Program for Patients Who Screen Positive for Intimate Partner Violence, Suicidal Ideation,...

Area of Science:

• Mental Health
• Public Health
• Social Work

Background:

• Peer support programs are effective for various mental health needs.
• Multimorbidity involving intimate partner violence (IPV), suicidal ideation, and depression presents complex challenges.
• Existing healthcare models may not adequately address these intersecting needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a peer support network for individuals with co-occurring IPV, suicidal ideation, and depression.
• To assess the impact of peer support on reducing IPV, depression symptoms, and suicide risk.
• To provide a model for healthcare systems implementing peer support for complex mental health conditions.

Main Methods:

• A pilot peer support program, Suicide Obviation Support (SOS), was implemented over one year.
• SOS navigators provided direct support and referrals to 108 patients screening positive for IPV, suicidality, and/or depression.
• A 6-month follow-up was conducted to assess program outcomes.

Main Results:

• 63 participants (58.3%) were retained at 6-month follow-up.
• Participants retained in the program showed significant declines in IPV, depression symptoms, and suicide risk scores.
• SOS navigators facilitated continuity of care, including referrals to mental health services and social support.

Conclusions:

• Peer support programs, like SOS, can effectively address multimorbidity in high-risk populations.
• This model demonstrates the value of integrated care and direct support for patients facing complex mental health challenges.
• Healthcare systems can adapt this model to improve outcomes for individuals with intersecting needs.