Examining the Impact of Peer Mentors on Individuals Transitioning to Adult Eating Disorder Treatment

Many young people slip through gaps in care and do not access the eating disorder treatment they need as adults. The purpose of this study is to assess a program that uses peer mentors to help guide youth during their transition from youth into adult eating disorder care. Peer mentors have lived experience with EDs, are often less intimidating and more cost effective than clinicians, and are trained to help youth become more independent, identify goals / barriers to transition, and develop problem solving skills. The main goal of the study is to understand whether this peer mentor program is judged as suitable and satisfying by youth (aged 16-24 years), their carers (e.g., parents, guardians), and peer mentors. Data will be collected through self-report questionnaires and one-on-one interviews to understand if/how the program is helpful to youth and to learn what youth, carers, and peer mentors think of the program and transitions in ED care. This information will help determine if adjustments needed to improve the program for future use and if they program can be used on a larger scale.

Faculty Supervisor:

Aaron Keshen

Student:

Partner:

Nova Scotia Health

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Professional, scientific and technical services; Public administration

University:

Dalhousie University

Program: