While approaches to peer support programs can vary, they share some common objectives.

Common objectives

Some shared objectives are:

• provide a safe space and learning environment for young people without fear of judgment, misunderstanding, harassment or abuse
• increase social connectedness and create a sense of belonging within supportive peer networks
• provide positive role models, positive peer influences and opportunities which help young people to develop a positive self-concept, self-acceptance and high self-esteem
• prevent the onset or further development of mental health problems including depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal ideation
• increase confidence and to develop and enhance communication and social skills
• empower young people to build personal resilience and improved help-seeking behaviour through increased knowledge of available support, reduced stigma associated with mental health difficulties and help-seeking, the development of positive coping strategies and the development of skills needed to access help
• foster future thinking and optimism and widen young people’s understanding and beliefs of the opportunities available to them.²⁴