Peer navigation: a pilot study to improve recovery capital for alcohol and other drug telephone helpline callers

Background: People with alcohol and other drug (AOD) use problems face multiple barriers to care. Peer navigation may overcome known barriers to care. This pilot study explored the impact of peer navigation integrated into an AOD telephone helpline. Methods: Helpline callers (n = 34; 21 male, 12 female, 1 non-binary; mean age 41.3 years) were connected to a peer worker for 6 weekly phone sessions. Linear mixed models were performed to assess change in recovery capital, self-efficacy, and substance use post-intervention and 3-months follow-up. A descriptive approach was used to analyse qualitative data. Results: Participants attended a mean of 4.2 sessions (range 0 to 8). Analyses showed significant improvements in recovery capital (B = 2.56, p <.001) and self-efficacy (B = 0.18, p =.015) at exit and follow-up respectively. Participants showed significant reductions in substance use at follow-up. Qualitative analysis indicated participants described unique benefits related to working with a peer, including help to access resources and support. Conclusion: Peer navigation via an AOD helpline has potential to support callers to improve recovery-related outcomes. More research is needed to assess the efficacy of peer programs in helping overcome barriers to accessing care.