Better Together: acceptability, feasibility and preliminary impact of chronic illness peer support groups for South African adolescents and young adults.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Peer support can help navigate the isolation and psychological strain frequently experienced by youth living with chronic illness. Yet, data are lacking on the impact of providing support for youth living with mixed chronic conditions. We assessed the acceptability, feasibility and preliminary mental health impacts of a clinic-based peer support group for South African youth living with chronic illnesses, including HIV.

Methods

This mixed-methods pilot study (September 2021-June 2022) enrolled 58 young patients, ages 13-24, at an urban hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. In-depth interviews elicited the perspectives of 20 young people in relation to their participation in the Better Together programme, a recurring clinic-based peer support group for patients wi

SUBMITTER: Harrison A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10618872 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature