What is Peer Support?

Peer support is a chance to connect with another young person who’s had their own experiences navigating mental health or substance use challenges. Peer support workers are there to listen to you about any struggle or challenge you may be experiencing. They’re not doctors or counsellors, their expertise comes from life experience, which can help if you’re feeling nervous or unsure about getting in touch with a service provider.

Peer support workers can’t diagnose or treat mental health challenges, and shouldn’t be used as a replacement for health professionals (such as doctors, counsellors, psychologists or social workers). They can offer non-judgemental support, understanding, and help with navigating the system and finding services and resources.

Trans Care BC Peer Support

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Trans Care BC provides support to peer-led initiatives, such as trans support groups and groups for parents/caregivers of gender diverse children and youth, through funding opportunities, networking opportunities, and peer project support and mentorship. Find out about peer supports in your area in our service directory.

Schools

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Some middle schools, secondary schools, universities and colleges have peer support workers and groups who are there to help you with any problem or challenge you might be having. You may want to ask a teacher, school counsellor, professor or someone else at your school about what’s available.

Foundry Centres

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Check out your local Foundry Centre to see if they offer peer support.

BC Children's Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre - Youth & Young Adult Peer Support

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If you can’t find peer support in your community, you can connect with a Youth Peer Support worker at the Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre who provide support to young people and families across BC.