This exercise delves into the issue of oversharing and highlights the importance of maintaining confidentiality within peer relationships.
Reflecting on my own experience, I recall a situation during my peer support training when some fellow trainees openly discussed their personal diagnoses and challenges with the rest of the cohort during an induction session. This made me feel uncomfortable as I had only just met these individuals, and they were essentially strangers to me. Sharing my own traumas with them felt well outside my comfort zone. I sensed that these instances of oversharing were not necessarily aimed at benefiting others but rather came from a place of discomfort.
Today’s session provided me with valuable insights into the importance of being mindful of what we choose to share with specific individuals. Becoming trauma-informed equips us with the knowledge to avoid saying things that might trigger traumatic responses in others. Moreover, it underlines the significance of discerning the relevance of our experiences in the context of another person’s current situation. What holds great importance to us may not necessarily be as useful or relevant to share with someone else facing different challenges.
As a peer supporter, I recognize the need for caution when determining what experiences to share with my peers. I must carefully evaluate the potential benefit of sharing a lived experience based on the specific situation and context, focusing on how it can address the issues at hand. This perspective encourages a more targeted and considered approach to peer support, with the aim of providing genuine help and guidance while respecting the principles of confidentiality.