The purpose of this guide is to centralize and share information that will support the development of emergency department (ED) peer support programs. Definitions of ED peer support programs vary widely and include a broad range of features and structures explored in more detail.

For this guide, ED peer support programs connect peer supporters with individuals receiving services for substance use or mental health-related crisis in an ED setting.

Ideally, this connection begins while the individual is still at the ED to maximize the potential for an ongoing relationship between the individual receiving services and the peer, though this is not always feasible.