Peer Support, Stigma and Help-Seeking in the Italian Army: A Qualitative Study

In Italy, peer support among Army personnel has not yet been introduced as a tool to support mental health. However, in countries where this approach has been implemented, it has proved useful in overcoming the stigma associated with seeking help. The aim of this study is to examine, in a sample of Italian Army service members, their willingness to introduce peer support, as well as potential barriers and opportunities.

This study used a qualitative design. Fifteen active-duty Italian Army personnel deployed overseas were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore perceptions of the peer supporter role, potential barriers, and selection requirements for peer supporters. Interview transcripts were produced and analyzed using the ALCESTE software for lexical analysis to identify recurring thematic patterns.

Analysis of the interviews showed that, overall, participants were open to the introduction of a peer supporter role. In particular, the role was viewed as an initial source of support in situations of difficulty, such as in managing family-related dynamics while deployed overseas. However, critical issues emerged regarding the characteristics of the peer supporter. Interviewees indicated that the peer supporter should necessarily share the same type of experience as the individual seeking support and ideally be of the same rank, to avoid institutional discomfort and difficulties related to hierarchical relationships. Additional concerns related to confidentiality and interpersonal credibility.

Among the interviewees, peer support appeared to be a potentially valuable tool for mitigating stress, reducing stigma, and promoting help-seeking in support of well-being. To ensure effective implementation, the interviews highlighted the need to integrate peer support with existing mental health services and to provide clear safeguards regarding the confidentiality of what is shared.