How can you show appreciation for emotional labor in peer support networks?

I strongly agree with the acknowledgment. Whether it be in any level or phase of life, professional or personal, lines are intertwined and is super difficult to differentiate. The effect of one on the other is super critical. Acknowledging one’s own emotions and asking for help by sharing specific experiences is the first win. Once peers support and help find a solution and empathize, it is critical to appreciate their support and to ensure to reciprocate

As a leader overseeing nationwide Peer Support services, I've learned that establishing well-defined boundaries is of utmost importance. While most peer supporters are driven by the best of intentions, they may not fully grasp the emotional toll that providing support can take on them. That's why it's invaluable to incorporate comprehensive guidelines as a fundamental aspect of their training. In addition to guidelines, it's essential to offer regular check-ins and the flexibility for peer supporters to take time away from their roles if they become overburdened. Creating a culture of kindness and authenticity is pivotal in enabling them to openly communicate their challenges and concerns, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all.

Highlighting the tangible impact of peer support is a vital and potent way to honor their valuable efforts. We must incorporate this into regular supervision or check-in sessions, ideally every 3-6 months. This intentional reflection on the positive influence created not only recognises their meaningful contribution but also provides a valuable platform for continuous growth and learning.

Many peer supporters I've encountered are motivated by a genuine desire to help rather than seeking recognition. Nevertheless, it's crucial to pause and acknowledge milestones as a form of appreciation. Whether it's marking an anniversary or recognising a particularly impactful contribution, these celebrations can significantly boost the morale of peer supporters, fostering emotional well-being and retention

One thing I’ve found helpful is to ask people what resources they need and when so they aren’t overburdened. Sometimes for example more information is actually not as helpful when someone is time poor. But providing what they need when they need it in the appropriate format works.

Give back - emotional labour doesn’t have to be a one way process. Depending on the type of support group, providing each other support creates relationships, genuine connection and also ensures there isn’t a power imbalance.

In my opinion encourage their efforts and even if it’s possible give rewards to their outcome and the consequences. Protection and help them to be able to show their abilities and give value to their efforts. Anyway all needs training to not to be mechanical.

Emotional labour is a critical resource & secure investment. I am a regulated health professional. I am experienced setting up & leading peer supports. I suggest more synergy between peer & regulated professionals. That's a strategy whether or not formal linkages exist for purposes, places, people involving with a peer network. When peer support professionals can anticipate monthly or even quarterly "return" on their emotional investments, this functions "like" a formal recognition system. It is also an opportunity for talent exchange, critical incident debriefs, and nourishing resilience. Our mental health & social caring systems are generally under-resourced for assuring enough caring for caregivers. Linkages are a solution.