Perceived effectiveness of peer support for youth living with chronic pain.

Youth with chronic pain suffer from a disease process that is not well understood, has an uncertain illness trajectory, and is not usually accompanied by obvious physical signs. Hence many adolescents face disbelief from friends, family, and health professionals. Most feel isolated as they do not have peers with a similar chronic pain experience. Their pain condition interferes with their ability to meet with friends regularly and maintain friendships which may add to feelings of isolation. Although there are various causes of chronic pain in youth treatment approaches are generic and there is no definitive cure. Youth must learn how to re-engage or remain engaged in school, activities, and friendships, while participating in their rehabilitation programs. The literature suggests that peer support is helpful for various populations with chronic illness. However, there is no literature identifying the needs or effectiveness of peer support for youth living with chronic pain. In the first study, I plan to explore what youth identify as their needs and preferences for peer support. Using this consumer input, in subsequent studies, I will design and begin testing the effectiveness of methods of providing peer support to youth living with chronic pain.