scholarly journals Breastfeeding support at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service: a descriptive survey

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine Burns ◽  
Louise Duursma ◽  
Zoi Triandafilidis
Keyword(s):  
Peer Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Support Service ◽  
Free Access ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Practical Support ◽  
Qualitative Responses ◽  
Descriptive Survey ◽  
Face Support

Abstract BackgroundIn Australia, during the early establishment phase of breastfeeding, women can access telephone peer support counselling provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) however options for face-to-face peer support are limited. The known factors which improve ongoing and exclusive breastfeeding include face-to-face support, peer and/or professional support, and trained personnel. This study aimed to examine women’s experiences of accessing one breastfeeding drop-in peer support service provided by trained peer support volunteer counsellors from the ABA.MethodsWomen who accessed the service were invited, in 2014, to participate in an anonymous online survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were asked about their experiences of breastfeeding support, as well as their experiences of the drop-in service. In total, 53 women completed the online survey, and subsequent analysis generated descriptive statistics and qualitative themes.ResultsResponses to the survey revealed that women attended the drop-in service with infants ranging in age from less than 1 week through to 12 months of age. Most women reported attending with infants aged 0-8 weeks of age (72%). The predominant presenting problems identified were sore/damaged nipples, difficulties with infant latching to the breast, or concerns about using nipple shields. Analysis of the open text qualitative responses revealed one overarching theme ‘Support to continue breastfeeding’ and four subthemes: ‘feeling listened to and not judged’; ‘emotional support and confidence building’; ‘the importance of face-to-face, practical support'; and ‘the need for ongoing, free access’.DiscussionIn this study many women were seeking support for ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Health professionals who had limited breastfeeding knowledge and skills were identified as most unhelpful in providing support with ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Women valued having access to trained peer counsellors, who had the capacity to provide non-judgemental, face-to-face support; who could sit through a feed; in a space that was ‘safe’; and who could enhance a woman’s confidence with breastfeeding over the course of her full breastfeeding journey. ConclusionReactive peer support, provided in response to need, at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service, was described by participants as pivotal to enabling their ongoing breastfeeding.Key words: Breastfeeding, Lactation, Peer support, Peer counsellor, Thematic analysis, Reactive support, Drop-in

scholarly journals Breastfeeding support at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service: a descriptive survey

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine S. Burns ◽  
Louise Duursma ◽  
Zoi Triandafilidis
Keyword(s):  
Peer Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Support Service ◽  
Free Access ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Practical Support ◽  
Qualitative Responses ◽  
Descriptive Survey ◽  
Face Support

Abstract Background In Australia, during the early establishment phase of breastfeeding, women can access telephone peer support counselling provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) however options for face-to-face peer support are limited. The known factors which improve ongoing and exclusive breastfeeding include face-to-face support, peer and/or professional support, and trained personnel. This study aimed to examine women’s experiences of accessing one breastfeeding drop-in peer support service provided by trained peer support volunteer counsellors from the ABA. Methods Women who accessed the service were invited, in 2014, to participate in an anonymous online survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were asked about their experiences of breastfeeding support, as well as their experiences of the drop-in service. In total, 53 women completed the online survey, and subsequent analysis generated descriptive statistics and qualitative themes. Results Responses to the survey revealed that women attended the drop-in service with infants ranging in age from less than 1 week through to 12 months of age. Most women reported attending with infants aged 0–8 weeks of age (72%). The predominant presenting problems identified were sore/damaged nipples, difficulties with infant latching to the breast, or concerns about using nipple shields. Analysis of the open text qualitative responses revealed one overarching theme ‘Support to continue breastfeeding’ and four subthemes: ‘feeling listened to and not judged’; ‘emotional support and confidence building’; ‘the importance of face-to-face, practical support’; and ‘the need for ongoing, free access’. Discussion In this study many women were seeking support for ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Health professionals who had limited breastfeeding knowledge and skills were identified as most unhelpful in providing support with ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Women valued having access to trained peer counsellors, who had the capacity to provide non-judgemental, face-to-face support; who could sit through a feed; in a space that was ‘safe’; and who could enhance a woman’s confidence with breastfeeding over the course of her full breastfeeding journey. Conclusions Reactive peer support, provided in response to need, at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service, was described by participants as pivotal to enabling their ongoing breastfeeding.

scholarly journals Breastfeeding support at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service: a descriptive survey

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine Burns ◽  
Louise Duursma ◽  
Zoi Triandafilidis
Keyword(s):  
Peer Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Support Service ◽  
Free Access ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Practical Support ◽  
Qualitative Responses ◽  
Descriptive Survey ◽  
Face Support

Abstract BackgroundIn Australia, during the early establishment phase of breastfeeding, women can access telephone peer support counselling provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) however options for face-to-face peer support are limited. The known factors which improve ongoing and exclusive breastfeeding include face-to-face support, peer and/or professional support, and trained personnel. This study aimed to examine women’s experiences of accessing one breastfeeding drop-in peer support service provided by trained peer support volunteer counsellors from the ABA.MethodsWomen who accessed the service were invited, in 2014, to participate in an anonymous online survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were asked about their experiences of breastfeeding support, as well as their experiences of the drop-in service. In total, 53 women completed the online survey, and subsequent analysis generated descriptive statistics and qualitative themes.ResultsResponses to the survey revealed that women attended the drop-in service with infants ranging in age from less than 1 week through to 12 months of age. Most women reported attending with infants aged 0-8 weeks of age (72%). The predominant presenting problems identified were sore/damaged nipples, difficulties with infant latching to the breast, or concerns about using nipple shields. Analysis of the open text qualitative responses revealed one overarching theme ‘Support to continue breastfeeding’ and four subthemes: ‘feeling listened to and not judged’; ‘emotional support and confidence building’; ‘the importance of face-to-face, practical support'; and ‘the need for ongoing, free access’.DiscussionIn this study many women were seeking support for ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Health professionals who had limited breastfeeding knowledge and skills were identified as most unhelpful in providing support with ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Women valued having access to trained peer counsellors, who had the capacity to provide non-judgemental, face-to-face support; who could sit through a feed; in a space that was ‘safe’; and who could enhance a woman’s confidence with breastfeeding over the course of her full breastfeeding journey. ConclusionReactive peer support, provided in response to need, at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service, was described by participants as pivotal to enabling their ongoing breastfeeding.

scholarly journals Breastfeeding support at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service: a descriptive survey

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine Burns ◽  
Louise Duursma ◽  
Zoi Triandafilidis
Keyword(s):  
Peer Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Support Service ◽  
Free Access ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Practical Support ◽  
Qualitative Responses ◽  
Descriptive Survey ◽  
Face Support

Abstract Background In Australia, during the early establishment phase of breastfeeding, women can access telephone peer support counselling provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) however options for face-to-face peer support are limited. The known factors which improve ongoing and exclusive breastfeeding include face-to-face support, peer and/or professional support, and trained personnel. This study aimed to examine women’s experiences of accessing one breastfeeding drop-in peer support service provided by trained peer support volunteer counsellors from the ABA. Methods Women who accessed the service were invited to participate in an anonymous online survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were asked about their experiences of breastfeeding support, as well as their experiences of the drop-in service. In total, 53 women completed the online survey, and subsequent analysis generated descriptive statistics and qualitative themes. Findings Responses to the survey revealed that women attended the drop-in service with infants ranging in age from less than 1 week through to 12 months of age. Most women reported attending with infants aged 0-8 weeks of age 72%. The predominant presenting problems identified were sore/damaged nipples, difficulties with infant latching to the breast, or concerns about using nipple shields. Analysis of the open text qualitative responses revealed one overarching theme ‘Support to continue breastfeeding’ and four subthemes: ‘feeling listened to and not judged’; ‘emotional support and confidence building’; ‘the importance of face-to-face, practical support'; and ‘the need for ongoing, free access’. Discussion In this study many women were seeking support for ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Health professionals who had limited breastfeeding knowledge and skills were identified as most unhelpful in providing support with ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Women valued having access to trained peer counsellors, who had the capacity to provide non-judgemental, face-to-face support; who could sit through a feed; in a space that was ‘safe’; and who could enhance a woman’s confidence with breastfeeding over the course of her full breastfeeding journey. Conclusion Women described the importance of access to a reactive style of drop-in service, in response to need, which was dedicated to breastfeeding support and which was available locally.

scholarly journals Breastfeeding support at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service: a descriptive survey

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine Burns ◽  
Louise Duursma ◽  
Zoi Triandafilidis
Keyword(s):  
Peer Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Support Service ◽  
Free Access ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Practical Support ◽  
Qualitative Responses ◽  
Descriptive Survey ◽  
Face Support

Abstract BackgroundIn Australia, during the early establishment phase of breastfeeding, women can access telephone peer support counselling provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) however options for face-to-face peer support are limited. The known factors which improve ongoing and exclusive breastfeeding include face-to-face support, peer and/or professional support, and trained personnel. This study aimed to examine women’s experiences of accessing one breastfeeding drop-in peer support service provided by trained peer support volunteer counsellors from the ABA.MethodsWomen who accessed the service were invited, in 2014, to participate in an anonymous online survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were asked about their experiences of breastfeeding support, as well as their experiences of the drop-in service. In total, 53 women completed the online survey, and subsequent analysis generated descriptive statistics and qualitative themes.ResultsResponses to the survey revealed that women attended the drop-in service with infants ranging in age from less than 1 week through to 12 months of age. Most women reported attending with infants aged 0-8 weeks of age (72%). The predominant presenting problems identified were sore/damaged nipples, difficulties with infant latching to the breast, or concerns about using nipple shields. Analysis of the open text qualitative responses revealed one overarching theme ‘Support to continue breastfeeding’ and four subthemes: ‘feeling listened to and not judged’; ‘emotional support and confidence building’; ‘the importance of face-to-face, practical support'; and ‘the need for ongoing, free access’.DiscussionIn this study many women were seeking support for ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Health professionals who had limited breastfeeding knowledge and skills were identified as most unhelpful in providing support with ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Women valued having access to trained peer counsellors, who had the capacity to provide non-judgemental, face-to-face support; who could sit through a feed; in a space that was ‘safe’; and who could enhance a woman’s confidence with breastfeeding over the course of her full breastfeeding journey.ConclusionReactive peer support, provided in response to need, at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service, was described by participants as pivotal to enabling their ongoing breastfeeding.

scholarly journals Breastfeeding support at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service: a descriptive survey

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine Burns ◽  
Louise Duursma ◽  
Zoi Triandafilidis
Keyword(s):  
Peer Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Support Service ◽  
Free Access ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Key Words Breast ◽  
Practical Support ◽  
Descriptive Survey ◽  
Face Support

Abstract Background: In Australia, during the early establishment phase of breastfeeding, women can access telephone peer support counselling provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) however options for face-to-face peer support are limited. The known factors which improve ongoing and exclusive breastfeeding include face-to-face support, peer and/or professional support, and trained personnel. This study aimed to examine women’s experiences of accessing one breastfeeding drop-in peer support service provided by trained peer support volunteer counsellors from the ABA.Methods: Women who accessed the service were invited, in 2014, to participate in an anonymous online survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were asked about their experiences of breastfeeding support, as well as their experiences of the drop-in service. In total, 53 women completed the online survey, and subsequent analysis generated descriptive statistics and qualitative themes.Results: Responses to the survey revealed that women attended the drop-in service with infants ranging in age from less than 1 week through to 12 months of age. Most women reported attending with infants aged 0-8 weeks of age (72%). The predominant presenting problems identified were sore/damaged nipples, difficulties with infant latching to the breast, or concerns about using nipple shields. Analysis of the open text qualitative responses revealed one overarching theme ‘Support to continue breastfeeding’ and four subthemes: ‘feeling listened to and not judged’; ‘emotional support and confidence building’; ‘the importance of face-to-face, practical support'; and ‘the need for ongoing, free access’.Discussion: In this study many women were seeking support for ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Health professionals who had limited breastfeeding knowledge and skills were identified as most unhelpful in providing support with ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Women valued having access to trained peer counsellors, who had the capacity to provide non-judgemental, face-to-face support; who could sit through a feed; in a space that was ‘safe’; and who could enhance a woman’s confidence with breastfeeding over the course of her full breastfeeding journey. Conclusion: Women described the importance of access to a reactive style of drop-in service, in response to need, which was dedicated to breastfeeding support and which was available locally. Key words: Breast Feeding, Lactation, Community Survey, peer support, peer counsellor, thematic analysis

scholarly journals Reactive breastfeeding support at an Australian Breastfeeding Association drop-in service

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine Burns ◽  
Louise Duursma ◽  
Zoi Triandafilidis
Keyword(s):  
Peer Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Support Service ◽  
Free Access ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Breastfeeding Knowledge ◽  
Practical Support ◽  
Qualitative Responses ◽  
Face Support

Abstract Background In Australia, during the early establishment phase of breastfeeding, women can access telephone peer support counselling provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) however options for face-to-face peer support are limited. The known factors which improve ongoing and exclusive breastfeeding include face-to-face support, peer and/or professional support, and trained personnel. This study aimed to examine women’s experiences of accessing one breastfeeding drop-in peer support service provided by trained peer support volunteer counsellors from the ABA.Methods Women who accessed the service were invited to participate in an anonymous online survey which collected both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were asked about their experiences of breastfeeding support, as well as their experiences of the drop-in service. In total, 53 women completed the online survey, and subsequent analysis generated descriptive statistics and qualitative themes.Findings Responses to the survey revealed that women attended the drop-in lounge with infants ranging in age from less than 1 week through to 12 months of age. Most women reported attending with infants aged 0-8 weeks of age 72% (n37). The predominant presenting problems identified were sore/damaged nipples, difficulties with infant latching to the breast, or concerns about using nipple shields. Analysis of the open text qualitative responses revealed one overarching theme ‘Support to continue breastfeeding’ and four subthemes: ‘feeling listened to and not judged’; ‘emotional support and confidence building’; ‘the importance of face-to-face, practical support'; and ‘the need for ongoing, free access’.Discussion In this study many women were seeking support for ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Some were referred to health professional’s for investigation of restricted tongue movement. Health professionals who had limited breastfeeding knowledge and skills were identified as most unhelpful in providing support with ongoing breastfeeding difficulties. Women valued having access to trained peer counsellors, who had the capacity to provide non-judgemental, face-to-face support; who could sit through a feed; in a space that was ‘safe’; and who could enhance a woman’s confidence with breastfeeding over the course of her full breastfeeding journey.Conclusion Women described the importance of access to a reactive drop-in service which was dedicated to breastfeeding support and which was available in response to need.

scholarly journals Using Online Support Communities for Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders: Online Survey of Users’ Experiences

10.2196/18099 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (11) ◽  
pp. e18099
Author(s):  
Victoria Perkins ◽  
Neil S Coulson ◽  
E Bethan Davies
Keyword(s):  
Tourette Syndrome ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Online Communities ◽  
Emotional Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Tic Disorders ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Face Support

Background People living with a tic disorder (TD)—such as Tourette syndrome (TS)—experience many negative psychological and social challenges arising from chronic tics, such as stigmatization from peers and poorer quality of life, and these can impact upon their families too. It can be difficult for this population to access face-to-face support for tics, and so online support communities offer one avenue for support from peers facing similar experiences. However, little is known about how online support communities may be used by people with TS and other TDs, and by others (eg, parents, caregivers) supporting a person with TS/TD. Objective This study aimed to explore users’ experiences of participation in online support communities for TS and TDs. Methods In total, 90 respondents (aged 13-62 years; 62% [56/90] female) from 13 countries completed an online survey exploring their experiences of using online support communities for TS and TDs. Respondents were people living with TS/TD themselves (n=68) or supportive others of someone with TS/TD (eg, parent, sibling, spouse; n=14), or both (n=8). The online survey contained open-ended questions eliciting their self-reported motivations for using online communities, their benefits and drawbacks of participation, and whether online support communities affected offline management of tics. Responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Seven overarching themes captured experiences of using online support communities for TS/TDs. The overwhelming reason for their use was to find accessible support due to a lack of offline face-to-face support. Online support communities were valued sources of informational and emotional support, and also had a positive impact upon helping users’ psychological well-being. Online communities helped provide a space where people with TS/TDs could feel accepted and reduce the social isolation they felt offline. The suggestible nature of tics and being reminded of the challenging nature of TDs were main disadvantages arising from using online support communities, alongside conflict arising within online communities. Conclusions The findings suggest that online support communities appear to offer valuable informational and emotional support to those living with TS/TD and their families too, especially given the lack of locally available support. This facilitates a sense of community online, which can help users in overcoming long-standing social isolation and aid self-reported improvements in psychosocial well-being. Users reported some drawbacks in engaging with online support communities, such as conflict between different types of users and triggering content, which negatively affected experiences of community participation.

scholarly journals Using Online Support Communities for Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders: Online Survey of Users’ Experiences (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victoria Perkins ◽  
Neil S Coulson ◽  
E Bethan Davies
Keyword(s):  
Tourette Syndrome ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Online Communities ◽  
Emotional Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Tic Disorders ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Face Support

BACKGROUND People living with a tic disorder (TD)—such as Tourette syndrome (TS)—experience many negative psychological and social challenges arising from chronic tics, such as stigmatization from peers and poorer quality of life, and these can impact upon their families too. It can be difficult for this population to access face-to-face support for tics, and so online support communities offer one avenue for support from peers facing similar experiences. However, little is known about how online support communities may be used by people with TS and other TDs, and by others (eg, parents, caregivers) supporting a person with TS/TD. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore users’ experiences of participation in online support communities for TS and TDs. METHODS In total, 90 respondents (aged 13-62 years; 62% [56/90] female) from 13 countries completed an online survey exploring their experiences of using online support communities for TS and TDs. Respondents were people living with TS/TD themselves (n=68) or supportive others of someone with TS/TD (eg, parent, sibling, spouse; n=14), or both (n=8). The online survey contained open-ended questions eliciting their self-reported motivations for using online communities, their benefits and drawbacks of participation, and whether online support communities affected offline management of tics. Responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Seven overarching themes captured experiences of using online support communities for TS/TDs. The overwhelming reason for their use was to find accessible support due to a lack of offline face-to-face support. Online support communities were valued sources of informational and emotional support, and also had a positive impact upon helping users’ psychological well-being. Online communities helped provide a space where people with TS/TDs could feel accepted and reduce the social isolation they felt offline. The suggestible nature of tics and being reminded of the challenging nature of TDs were main disadvantages arising from using online support communities, alongside conflict arising within online communities. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that online support communities appear to offer valuable informational and emotional support to those living with TS/TD and their families too, especially given the lack of locally available support. This facilitates a sense of community online, which can help users in overcoming long-standing social isolation and aid self-reported improvements in psychosocial well-being. Users reported some drawbacks in engaging with online support communities, such as conflict between different types of users and triggering content, which negatively affected experiences of community participation.

scholarly journals Providing Breastfeeding Support During COVID-19: A Survey of Staff Experiences

2021 ◽  
pp. 089033442110478
Author(s):  
Rachel Hoying ◽  
Nevert Badreldin ◽  
Malika D. Shah ◽  
Janelle R. Bolden ◽  
Peter Cummings ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Breastfeeding Support ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Physical Separation ◽  
Academic Center ◽  
Constant Comparative Method ◽  
Qualitative Responses ◽  
Staff Experiences

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges to maternity settings. Its effect on providing in-hospital lactation support has not been well described. Research Aim: To describe the experiences of healthcare workers as they provided in-hospital lactation support during the pandemic. Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional, online survey evaluated healthcare providers working with postpartum women and newborns affected by COVID-19 at an academic center during March–June 2020. Providers were queried regarding the influence of COVID-19 and COVID-19-specific policies on providing lactation support. Questions assessed guidance received, perceived stress, difficulty providing care, and solicited qualitative responses. The constant comparative method was used to analyze qualitative data. Results: Of 108 providers, 70 (65%) completed the survey. Of 57 providing direct lactation support to women affected by COVID-19, most ( n = 39, 67%) reported increased stress. Participants reported lower stress scores when receiving guidance through shift meetings or email compared to those not receiving this guidance [stress score with shift meeting guidance ( M [ SD]): 3.10 (0.88); score without guidance: 3.83 (0.66); n = 39, p = .009; score with email guidance: 3.79 (0.58); score without guidance: 4.50 (0.58); n = 18, p = .045). Qualitative responses ( n = 67; 96%) identified three themes: visitor restrictions allowed less distraction during lactation support; physical separation disrupted maternal/infant bonding; workflow challenges resulted from policy changes and supply access. Conclusions: Most participating staff providing lactation support to women affected by COVID-19 reported increased stress. Ensuring written or verbal guidance may reduce staff’s experiences of stress. Efforts to optimize lactation support during COVID-19 should consider reducing distractions, physical separation, and logistic challenges.

scholarly journals Thematic analysis of mechanisms underpinning email peer support for young people with eating disorders

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Imogen Peebles ◽  
Beccy Brown ◽  
Emma Juster ◽  
Fiona Duffy
Keyword(s):  
Eating Disorder ◽  
Peer Support ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Peer Interactions ◽  
Support Service ◽  
Online Forums ◽  
New Developments ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Peer Support Service

Purpose Peer support, such as mentorship and befriending, has been found to have a valuable impact on a range of outcomes. There are multiple formats, including face-to-face (individually and group), and in online forums. Advancement in technology has enabled online peer support to increase in popularity; however, little is known about mechanisms underpinning individual one to one online peer interactions. The purpose of this paper is to qualitatively explore the mechanisms underpinning email exchanges in an eating disorder peer support service. Design/methodology/approach Email transcripts from dyads in a moderated peer-to-peer email support service were analysed using inductive thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006). Findings The thematic analysis generated five themes as mechanisms of peer support. Relating and reflecting experience was the central superordinate theme. Subthemes included Positive Encouragement, Checking in and Prompting, Being a Confidante and Defining Recovery. Originality/value The current findings align with previous research and add new developments. The theme of Defining Recovery added the awareness of the personal perception of recovery, which had not been considered as a mechanism in previous literature and may be specific to this digital platform. This study could assist in the development of training for the provision of further peer support within eating disorder services.

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