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A review of literature of peer-based recovery support in substance abuse and the implications for effective implementation in Seychelles

ABSTRACT Background Despite the development of enhanced professional and specialized care for substance use disorder (SUD) patients, relapse rates remain high. In tacit recognition of this, health-care services have turned toward recovery-oriented approaches, which include incorporating various forms of peer-based recovery support (P-BRS) (peer support) to reduce relapse rates. While P-BRS has been implemented in the United States and Europe with huge success in facilitating long-term recovery from SUD, little is known about its effectiveness in Seychelles. Aim This literature review focuses on the role of P-BRS for those with SUD, by defining peer-based support, assessing its effectiveness, and describing the benefits and challenges presented in carrying out peer-based support in SUD treatment, as well as informing effective implementation in Seychelles. Method An inclusive search of published peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed literature on P-BRS and SUD between 2015-2019 was done using search engines of PubMed, PsychInfo and Google Scholar. Results The search reveals that P-BRS is effective in SUD recovery as it decreases the rate of re-hospitalization, gives social support, reduces stigma and empowers people in substance abuse, which positively affects the lives of peers and improves treatment outcomes. Recommendations are made as to how peer support can be effectively implemented in Seychelles to reduce relapse rates and enhance well-being for SUD patients.