There’s something really special about talking to someone who has gone through the same things you have. They understand in a way that others might not, because they’ve lived it too. When people with similar life experiences support each other, it can make a big difference. It helps you feel less alone, gives you hope, and often brings helpful advice that comes from real experience. Whether it’s dealing with a disability, mental health, or big life changes, support from someone who “gets it” can truly change your life.
Side by Side: The Power of Peer Support
When you hear someone share a story that sounds like your own, it can be a powerful moment. You might feel seen, understood, and more confident that things can get better. Peer support often leads to friendships, stronger self-esteem, and new ways of handling tough situations. It’s not about fixing each other’s problems—it’s about listening, sharing, and reminding one another that you’re not alone. Sometimes, just knowing someone else has faced the same challenges and kept going is enough to help you take the next step forward.
"Side by Side: The Power of Peer Support" is a short film about how people with lived experience of mental health challenges can support others going through similar struggles. It follows peer support workers in Scotland- some paid, some volunteers- as they share how helping others also helps their own recovery. The film shows how peer support builds hope, reduces stigma, and creates strong, supportive communities.
Peer Support in Mental Health
Support from others with similar experiences can also open doors to new opportunities. You might learn about resources you didn’t know existed, or discover new goals for yourself by hearing what others have achieved. These connections can inspire hope and show you what’s possible, even when things feel hard. Being part of a supportive community reminds you that your voice matters and that you have something to offer, too—not just to others, but to yourself.
"The Power of Peer Support in Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Recovery: A Social Justice Approach" by RADIAS Health, explores how peer support plays a transformative role in recovery, especially when viewed through the lens of social justice. The article explains how people with lived experience can support others in recovery from mental health or substance use issues. This kind of support builds trust, reduces stigma, and works especially well in marginalized communities. It also helps push for fairer systems and better care for everyone.
What are your thoughts on finding strength in others? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Featuring...
Growing Up Online: Understanding Youth Internet
Trends, Subcultures, and Relationships
From gaming chat servers to parasocial fan communities, youth online are engaging in experiences that meaningfully extend into offline interests, attachments, and activities. Where and how are children and teens spending their time online, and what is the nature of the cultures and relationships they are forming there? How are these affecting their offline development and sense of self?
Join Children and Screens for the last #AskTheExperts webinar of the spring 2025 season, “Growing Up Online: Understanding Youth Internet Trends, Subcultures, and Relationships,” on Wednesday, May 21 at 12pm ET. A panel of psychologists and experts in online communication and culture will share research and expertise in the specific ways youth are using online spaces for unique and meaningful play, parasocial relationships, identity development, and culture construction — and how parents and caregivers can support them for positive development.
Register here: https://bit.ly/3GZTV4H
P.S. Not able to join live? Register anyway and we'll send you the recording.
The SPAN Youth Chat
Join us virtually on June 4th from 4:15 to 5:00 PM with the SPAN Youth Engagement Team on a topic about advocacy and youth empowerment. More details to come.
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Resources...
Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726.
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