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Implementing a peer support program for improving university student wellbeing: The experience of program facilitators

Implementing a peer support program for improving university student wellbeing: The experience of... Peer support programs offer a promising approach to addressing the high levels of stress and psychological distress reported by university students. However, few studies have considered the impact of implemented programs on the wellbeing and skill development of student facilitators. This study examines the experiences of student facilitators of a guided peer support program for reducing and preventing stress and low mood in student participants. Benefits to student facilitators, anticipated and actual, include the development of skills and experience in group facilitation, and a greater sense of community and belonging. While challenges exist in establishing initiatives, peer support and mentoring programs can offer valuable benefits by increasing wellbeing and fostering skill development for both participants and student facilitators. It is important that university-based peer support programs consider the student facilitator experience in both program development and evaluation and ensure training addresses facilitator concerns, prepares students adequately for the role, and considers the benefits for individual professional development. http://www.deepdyve.com/assets/images/DeepDyve-Logo-lg.png Australian Journal of Education SAGE

Implementing a peer support program for improving university student wellbeing: The experience of program facilitators

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References (33)

Publisher
SAGE
Copyright
© Australian Council for Educational Research 2020
ISSN
0004-9441
eISSN
2050-5884
DOI
10.1177/0004944120910498
Publisher site
See Article on Publisher Site

Abstract

Peer support programs offer a promising approach to addressing the high levels of stress and psychological distress reported by university students. However, few studies have considered the impact of implemented programs on the wellbeing and skill development of student facilitators. This study examines the experiences of student facilitators of a guided peer support program for reducing and preventing stress and low mood in student participants. Benefits to student facilitators, anticipated and actual, include the development of skills and experience in group facilitation, and a greater sense of community and belonging. While challenges exist in establishing initiatives, peer support and mentoring programs can offer valuable benefits by increasing wellbeing and fostering skill development for both participants and student facilitators. It is important that university-based peer support programs consider the student facilitator experience in both program development and evaluation and ensure training addresses facilitator concerns, prepares students adequately for the role, and considers the benefits for individual professional development.

Journal

Australian Journal of EducationSAGE

Published: Aug 1, 2020

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