A peer respite is a short-term voluntary program that provides community-based, non-clinical support to people experiencing a psychiatric/emotional crisis. Peer respites are staffed by peers 24 hours per day and operate in homelike environments. Stays can vary based on the needs of the individual; a typical day can consist of attending peer support groups, receiving one to one and/or group support, resource attainment based on the desired goals of the person, shared meals and activities or quite place to recoup from their current situation. The peer respite model operates as a cost-effective crisis diversion for individuals labeled as living with a mental health challenge and experiencing psychosocial stressors. As a crisis diversion model guest’s report that short term stays at a respite house prevent psychiatric emergency services, mental health urgent cares, hospital admissions, homelessness and/or jail.

Presenter: Guyton Colantuono, Project Return Peer Support Network