Peer helping: A mental health promotion phenomenon

Abstract

This study aimed at exploring the experiences and perceptions of peer facilitators and beneficiaries in promoting mental health support at Central Philippine University (CPU). The research aimed to identify the traits, roles, and interactions that define effective peer support and its impact on mental health awareness, emotional coping, and personal development. This qualitative research indicated the key emerging themes included traits of successful facilitators: empathy and active listening and the creation of safe space, responsibilities of emotional support, de-stigmatization, and connection to professional care. Findings highlighted beneficiary characteristics such as openness, personal growth, and peer influence in addressing barriers to seeking mental health support. The relationship between facilitators and beneficiaries showed intentional care, trust building, and meaningful engagement beyond formal obligations. Both groups emphasized safe, judgment-free spaces facilitating emotional resilience, coping mechanisms, and social connectedness. Spiritual and practical coping strategies including emotional grounding are also crucial in dealing with mental health issues, such as prayer and active listening. The study emphasized on the importance of peer support to raise awareness of mental health, reduce psychological burdens, and create a resilient empathetic community. The theoretical underpinnings applied were social constructionism, social exchange theory, and social learning theory. These helped the analysis by referring to the co-creation of knowledge, reciprocal benefits, and positive behavior modeling. Recommendations included improving peer facilitator training, increasing access to peer support, incorporating coping skills into sessions, and developing clear referral pathways to professional mental health services. Continuous program evaluation and adaptation are also recommended to meet the changing needs of participants. Peer support as an essential, sustainable intervention that promotes mental health awareness, reduces stigma, and builds emotional well-being in educational environments should be emphasized in schools.