Table 3 Summary of stressors reported by peer workers during focus groups
From: “Running myself ragged”: stressors faced by peer workers in overdose response settings
Stressor | Sub-themes |
|---|---|
Financial insecurity | Inequitable pay Job instability |
Lack of respect and recognition at work | Stigma and inequity Lack of resources to professionalize peer worker roles Lack of role clarity Lack of respect and recognition at work from colleagues Lack of respect from other professionals |
Housing challenges | Living situation jeopardizes safety and health Difficulty in acquiring housing due to stigma against PWUD Safe housing is unaffordable Affects peer workers’ productivity |
Inability to access or refer individuals to resources | Lack of social supports to access needed resources Inability to refer clients to resources leading to a sense of powerlessness and dissatisfaction Stigma and judgement affecting access of existing resources |
Constant exposure to death and trauma | Working as a first responder can cause stress and burnout Constant exposure to death and trauma is doubly stressful for peer workers, especially death of friends and family Personal and professional lives are inter-twined; no opportunity to unwind |