Implementing the figure of peer support workers in mental health: an international perspective from the context of its implementation in Catalonia

In the context of debates surrounding the training of mental health peer support workers and their incorporation into the Catalan Health System, this article presents a literature review complemented by interviews carried out between 2020 and 2021 with both international and Spanish experts. Based on the information obtained, content analysis of elements of their training and integration within the health system was performed. German-speaking countries offer the most homogeneous training and recruitment programs. In the case of English-and French-speaking countries, non-profit or third sector organizations are usually in charge of training programs and recruitment. Various experiences with training programs exist in the Ibero-American world, although they are not recognized as professional qualifications. Recommendations are offered for the development of this figure in Catalonia, which include advancing towards professional training with recognition as health care providers, as well as contracting options from both socio-health or health care providers or from third sector entities.

Automated summary

This article presents a literature review and interviews with experts from 2020 to 2021, exploring the training and integration of mental health peer support workers in the Catalan Health System. The study found that German-speaking countries have more consistent training and recruitment programs, while English- and French-speaking countries rely on non-profit organizations or third sector entities. In the Ibero-American world, various training programs exist but are not recognized as professional qualifications. Recommendations include advancing towards professional training and recognizing these workers as healthcare providers in Catalonia.