Meaningful work as a buffer against relapse

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that possessing a higher life’s purpose is connected to favourable health outcomes and can act as a buffer against substance misuse and/or relapse. Peer support work, wherein those in recovery from addiction act as emotional and practical support for people accessing necessary services brings meaning to the recovering addicts' suffering and imbues them with a sense of purpose. In my preliminary research, I conducted a literature review about life’s meaning related to occupation, recovery, well-being, and burnout and discovered that it is possible to attain a higher life's purpose as long as certain pre-requisites and mental health supports are put into place which include pathways to employment, education initiatives, healthy return-to-work plans, and on-site mental health support. 

In Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, Peer Support Workers who build connection, rapport, and inspire hope in those suffering from addiction and mental health issues are now found in correctional settings, hospital emergency rooms, shelters, housing initiatives, and treatment programs.

METHOD

Since the beginning of 2022, a free 8-week training course for those interested in Peer Support work has been offered in Surrey held for 3 hours once a week. Upon completion, participants are matched with a practicum site. This is a new program and in the beginning stages of research and study and we are gathering information through qualititative measures which address how meaningful this work is for those in recovery and how it fits into their recovery maintenance; needs assessments addressing salary expectations, flexible scheduling, and a work-life balance; and mental health and recovery in the workplace.

RESULTS

Since this new program's inception, Surrey has gone from having the 3rd highest rate of Overdoses per capita in British Columbia in 2022 to 40th place by the end of 2023. Students and peer support workers have stated that they have a higher purpose and something positive to focus on; however, stressors such as paying rent and difficulties making it to appointments related to their recovery have been reported. With the rise in overdose death escalting, the burnout rate has been high and more readily available mental health support has been requested. 

CONCLUSION

More research and attention for peer support work is warranted and we are still in the beginning stages of a) examining the efficacy of Peer Support's connection to a higher purpose as it relates to recovery; b) addressing barriers to healthy employment and discovering how to remove them; and c) how to incorporate adequate and available mental health support for peer workers.