THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON PEER SUPPORT SPECIALISTS: Findings from a National Survey

Researchers at Boston University’s Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation, in collaboration with the National Association of Peer Supporters (NAPS), conducted a survey of US-based Peer Support Specialists from May 18, 2020-June 22, 2020 in order to assess the impact of the novel coronavirus/COVID-19 on the peer support workforce, including job tasks, challenges and supports. A total of 1,280 peer support specialists (paid and volunteer) qualified for, consented and responded to the online survey. Individuals from all 50 states responded. Respondents were predominately female (69{65c9725524f8dafd06476fead8292eb76306bb2cdf1b70d48a146ff3629f4698}) and white (73{65c9725524f8dafd06476fead8292eb76306bb2cdf1b70d48a146ff3629f4698}), with a mean age of 50 years.