Peer-led group support: an umbrella review across physical and mental health conditions

BACKGROUND: Peer-led support interventions in group settings have emerged as a cost-effective alternative to traditional interventions for individuals with various conditions and can improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance self-management and self-efficacy. AIM: This umbrella review aims to synthesize and evaluate the evidence on the effectiveness, implementation, and outcomes of group peer support led solely by peers across any physical and/or mental health conditions. METHODS: Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and scoping reviews were identified through comprehensive searches of PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Only review studies focusing on peer-led group support were included. RESULTS: Five reviews examining the effectiveness and implementation of peer-led group support interventions were identified, conducted primarily in the USA, involving mostly adults. The reviews indicated that peer-led group support can enhance personal recovery and psychosocial outcomes, though its impact on clinical symptoms remains inconclusive. There was a lack of detailed information about implementation and settings, and ambiguity in intervention definitions and minimal information on peer facilitator training. Common elements such as educational activities, emotional support, and shared experiences were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Peer-led group support shows promise in enhancing personal recovery and psychosocial outcomes. Standardized definitions and rigorous reporting are needed.