Innovative Programs Expand the Reach of Peer Support

The principles of peer support are proving to be incredibly versatile, with new and expanding programs demonstrating their adaptability across a wide range of settings and populations. One particularly compelling example is the growth of the Military Aviator Peer Support Program (MAPS) within the U.S. Air Force.

Recognizing that aircrew might be hesitant to seek traditional mental healthcare due to concerns about their flight status, the Air Force, with crucial research and support from the 59th Medical Wing, launched and expanded MAPS. Research revealed that a significant 72% of U.S. military pilots admitted to withholding medical concerns for career-related reasons. MAPS provides a confidential, peer-based support system where trained aircrew members, both officers and enlisted, offer a first line of support to their fellow aviators dealing with life stressors and mental health concerns. Launched in November 2024, the program has already trained 32 peer supporters who are available to help over 500 Airmen. This initiative highlights how peer support can be successfully integrated into even the most specialized and high-pressure environments.

Beyond the military, community-based initiatives are also flourishing. In Macon, GA, River Edge broke ground on a new "Adult Peer Support and Community Integration Center" in October 2024, with an anticipated opening in December 2025. This center will offer a welcoming space for adults facing behavioral health issues, providing daily support groups and classes focused on essential daily living skills to improve overall well-being.

Training and resources for aspiring peer support specialists are also becoming more accessible. In Washington State, the Health Care Authority (HCA) is implementing enhanced 80-hour standard certification training and new virtual training options to meet the growing demand. The Peeriodical Education Expansion Research (P.E.E.R.) Initiative in rural communities is providing experiential training and scholarships to individuals seeking peer support training. Similarly, the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) has partnered with DHHS and Dartmouth Health to offer a Peer Support Specialist Certificate program to address workforce shortages. By early 2025, nearly 190 students are expected to have earned their certification through this program.

To further support the professionalization of the field, the National Association of Peer Supporters (N.A.P.S.) has launched a new job board specifically for peer support professionals and employers. These diverse initiatives, from specialized military programs to community centers and expanded training opportunities, demonstrate the growing commitment to making peer support more accessible and integrated into various aspects of life.