During my time in the hospital, I found myself in a situation where I was sectioned, meaning I had no choice but to stay in the hospital and undergo medication. Initially, I felt a surge of anger towards everyone around me, including my family, as I desperately wanted to be at home (I even attempted to run away from the hospital). However, I eventually came to understand that the sectioning was necessary for my safety and the safety of others. It was crucial in managing the psychosis I was experiencing at that time.
From the recent session, I’ve grasped the paramount importance of maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding. As peer support workers, we’re entrusted with sensitive information about our peers, and it’s our responsibility to ensure it remains private to safeguard their well-being. Any breach of this confidentiality is simply unacceptable. I’ve also realized that there might be instances where not sharing information with someone else could endanger the peer. In such cases, it’s essential to communicate this to the peer, emphasizing that their well-being remains the top priority.
In my role as a peer support worker, I aim to explain the rationale behind professional frameworks in simple terms so that the peers comprehend why these measures are in place and how they contribute to their safety. The well-being of the peer will always take precedence in my care approach, and I’ll do everything necessary to ensure their safety while minimizing any distress caused.