What does Peer Advocacy involve?

Peer advocacy is fundamentally about supporting individuals in recovery by representing their interests and needs, which often involves speaking on their behalf. This process empowers those in recovery to have their voices heard and ensures that their concerns are communicated effectively to others, such as healthcare professionals, family members, or community organizations.

While speaking on behalf of others is a critical aspect of peer advocacy, it also blends with promoting self-advocacy. Encouraging individuals to express their own needs and desires strengthens their confidence and participation in their recovery journey. However, the core definition of peer advocacy primarily focuses on the act of representation and support for those who may feel marginalized or unable to voice their own challenges.

Facilitating group therapy sessions and providing financial support, while helpful roles within the broader context of recovery support, do not align directly with the essence of peer advocacy. The primary aim of peer advocacy is to ensure that peers within the recovery community receive representation and advocacy for their specific needs.