Journal of Psychiatry

Abstract

Applying Peer Counselor Concept at Workplace and Pilot Test for its Efficacy

Soyeong Baek, Byungsu Kim, Ahra Cho, HyeYoun Park and Jeong-Hyun Kim

Objective: This study aimed to develop a peer counselor training program that can apply peer counselor concept at workplaces and conduct a pilot test for verifying its effects on peer counselors in relation to perceived stress, occupational stress, coping strategy, work-life balance and work flow, and to explore the possibility for the trainees to act as peer counselors in the future.

Methods: A peer counselor training program was developed based on reviewing journals related to common stressors of employees and stress management programs. Fourteen employees completed self-report questionnaires including perceived stress, occupational stress, ways of coping, work-life balance, and 3 questions regarding work flow, before and after the program. They also filled out a questionnaire which measured their satisfaction of the content and composition of the program upon completing the program.

Results: Perceived stress level and occupational stress level, including job demand, insufficient job control, interpersonal conflict, organizational system, and lack of reward, significantly decreased after the program compared to the outset level (p<0.05). Work-life balance also significantly improved (p<0.05). Satisfaction level for the program scored an average of 4.2 on a 5 point Likert scale.

Conclusions: Peer counselor training program can alleviate trainee’s various aspects of stress and enhance their motivation and confidence as a peer counselor. Further studies verifying the effects of this program on peer employees who receive support from peer counselors are needed.