Feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of a tailored self-compassion program for peer mentors within Canadian spinal cord injury community service organizations

Abstract

Purpose: We examined (1) the feasibility and acceptability of a tailored self-compassion program for peer mentors in Canadian spinal cord injury (SCI) community service organizations and (2) its effectiveness in improving compassion fatigue. compassion satisfaction, self-compassion, and mental health from pre to post and pre to 6-week follow-up.

Methods: We co-developed this study with two Canadian SCI organizations. Fifteen peer mentors completed the self-compassion program. Each participant completed three surveys (pre/post/6-week follow-up) and two interviews (post/6-week follow-up). Non-parametric tests were used to examine quantitative changes in the outcome variables. Qualitative data were analyzed using directed content analysis (feasibility and acceptability data) and thematic analysis (effectiveness data).

Results: The program was feasible and acceptable. Compassion fatigue decreased from pre to post and pre to follow-up. Total self-compassion and mental health increased from pre to post and pre to follow-up. Four themes were identified: from a self-critic to a self-ally, being a better peer mentor, building resilience, and benefits to the organization. At follow-up, peer mentors had evolving perspectives of the self and improved mental health.

Conclusions: The results from this study provide insight into the benefits of a tailored self-compassion program for peer mentors, the mentees they provide care to, and the organizations delivering the peer support programs.

Keywords: Compassion fatigue; disabilities; mentors; mindfulness; resilience.