When people are affected by a stroke of fate such as an accident or an illness, or when psychological problems such as depression affect their everyday lives, even well-meaning advice from outsiders and professionals often feels like a slap in the face. Those affected often feel misunderstood or have the feeling that the other person has no idea about their situation.

This is completely different if you are accompanied by a peer coach. In this setting, those affected help those affected. For example, people who have recently lost their sight are accompanied by experienced blind people. People who have lost their mobility as a result of an accident and are now dependent on a wheelchair are supported by tetra- or paraplegics who have been wheelchair users themselves for a long time. People with mental illnesses who need to be reintegrated into the primary labor market are supported by coaches who have themselves suffered from depression for a long time and were unable to work. If the other person has experienced a similar stroke of fate or a similar story, it is often easier to accept tips, help and advice - because the peer coach takes on a so-called model role and knows exactly what the situation of the person seeking advice feels like.

Peer coaching does not replace professional support such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy or psychological therapy or help from social services. Coaching provides coachees with self-determined and emancipatory support that is tailored precisely to their needs. It is assumed that people are generally able to face and solve problems themselves if the necessary information is available.

A peer - sometimes also called a recovery counselor - talks to the person concerned about the following topics, depending on their needs and wishes:

• Medical topics
• Therapy options and offers
• Nutrition
• Aids such as wheelchairs
• Exercise and fitness
• Hobbies and leisure activities
• Educational opportunities and professional development
• Sexuality, relationships, family
• Legal topics
• Travel, vacations and mobility
• Networks and environment
• Housing situation

Training as a peer coach is aimed at people who have been affected by an illness, a stroke of fate, an addiction or a disability for at least two years and who have a positive and reflective outlook on life. Relatives of those affected can also complete the training. It is important that the participants in this training want to help and support people who have recently been affected with their experiences.