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Abstract

Digital peer support interventions are a promising approach to deliver mental health support to adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D). While intervention outcomes have focused on recipients of support, the impact on those who provide support (i.e. peer supporters) remains under-investigated. The objectives of this study were 1) to examine whether delivering support is associated with changes in diabetes distress (DD) levels and other psychosocial outcomes in the context of a 6-month digital peer-led mental health support intervention (REACHOUT), and 2) to explore the experience and perspectives of peer supporters and participants following participation in REACHOUT. For objective one, an exploratory pre-post analysis using linear mixed models was performed with 36 peer supporters. For objective two, nine focus groups with 32 study participants (15 peer supporters and 17 participants) were conducted and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Peer supporters sustained DD levels and other secondary outcomes over the 6-month intervention. Four main themes emerged from focus groups: 1) Need for the sense of community and belonging; 2) Factors to enhance the peer supporter-participant experience; 3) Key aspects of the peer supporter experience; and 4) Importance of personalizing the user experience while using REACHOUT mobile app. Findings suggest that the process of delivering mental health support may yield a protective mental health benefit for peer supporters. Regardless of role, the need for connection is highly desired in the T1D community. By leveraging technology and peer support, we can improve access to mental health support for adults in geographically marginalized settings.