What does "empowerment" signify in the context of peer support?

Empowerment in the context of peer support signifies promoting an environment of control and recovery for individuals. This concept emphasizes helping people take charge of their own lives and decisions, enabling them to identify their strengths and resources. In a peer support setting, empowerment supports personal growth through shared experiences and the fostering of self-efficacy.

When individuals feel empowered, they are more likely to engage in their recovery processes actively, set their own goals, and take ownership of their health and well-being. This approach contrasts with fostering dependence, discouraging decision-making, or focusing only on clinical aspects, which do not align with the principles of peer support. The essence of empowerment is about providing individuals with the tools and support they need to make informed choices and promote their recovery journeys.