REDUCING MENTAL ILLNESS STIGMA THROUGH PEER-LED INTERVENTIONS IN PUBLIC HEALTH SETTINGS

Abstract

Our systematic review's primary goal was to find out how peer-led interventions affected the stigma associated with mental health issues.  An extensive review of literature in five electronic databases between 1975 and 2021 for randomized controlled trials was carried out. A meta-analysis was used to determine whether peer-led interventions are effective at reducing stigma for key outcomes. Regarding secondary outcomes, clinical symptoms were not significantly impacted.  Though not statistically significant, there was a favourable impact on empowerment and rehabilitation.  Self-efficacy and seeking professional assistance were both statistically significantly impacted.  The Honest Open Proud (HOP) subgroup demonstrated large reductions in distress related to disclosure and increased confidentiality, while the non-HOP subgroup experienced no alterations in withdrawal or confidentiality. Overall, peer-led interventions can increase recovery, empowerment, and self-efficacy but decrease stigma pressure and self-stigma, although they have no substantial effects on clinical symptoms or withdrawal, and rather facilitate motivation to pursue professional care.  HOP intervention improves pain and secrecy associated with disclosure.