Abstract
Peer mentorship programs have been implemented to enhance the quality of life of adults living with spinal cord injury (SCI). A larger meta-synthesis is currently underway to identify any outcomes related to peer mentorship. The purpose of this study was to specifically identify the health outcomes of receiving peer mentorship for adults with SCI. Twenty-three qualitative peer-reviewed studies and the grey literature (i.e., annual reviews, testimonials, websites, etc.) from our community partners (e.g., Spinal Cord Injury BC) were synthesized using a thematic synthesis approach. Specifically, the health outcomes of receiving peer mentorship were coded into two broad dimensions: physical and psychological. In the physical dimension, those who participated in peer mentorship reported increased physical activity and exercise participation, positive changes in dietary behavior, and better physical health. In the psychological dimension, those who participated in peer mentorship reported decreased stress, fear, anxiety, depression, and daily frustrations, and better mental health. In addition, enhanced health knowledge and clearer understanding of how to maintain health post-SCI were also identified. The findings suggest that receiving peer mentorship could contribute to a number of positive health outcomes, such as increased exercise participation, and help adults living with SCI maintain and improve physical and psychological health.
