Understanding recovery experiences and occupational support needs among substance use peer workers: a qualitative...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Workforce Development
• Substance Use Treatment

Background:

• The US faces a substance use disorder (SUD) workforce shortage, with peer workers (PWs) playing a vital role.
• PWs provide essential non-clinical services to vulnerable populations but face high occupational stress, trauma, and loss.
• This exposure can negatively impact PWs' well-being and sustained recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize existing qualitative evidence on the experiences of PWs in the substance use field.
• To examine the impact of this work on their personal recovery.
• To identify the occupational support needs of PWs.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched six databases for English-language peer-reviewed literature from 2000-2025 focusing on PW perspectives.
• Employed thematic synthesis for data analysis, with quality assessed by CASP and confidence by GRADE-CERQual.

Main Results:

• Synthesized evidence on PWs' unique work-related stressors and their impact on recovery.
• Identified critical gaps in current occupational support structures.
• Highlighted the need for tailored support systems to enhance PW well-being and retention.

Conclusions:

• PWs' experiences underscore the need for robust support systems to mitigate occupational hazards.
• Addressing PW support needs is crucial for workforce stability and effective substance use disorder treatment.
• Further research should explore effective interventions for supporting this growing workforce.