Domestic abuse is a significant public health and safety issue, requiring comprehensive action to both support survivors and prevent escalating violence. New research shows that peer support programs are an important part of this response, as they effectively reduce stress in participants while increasing measures related to empowerment and social connection.

Researchers from the University of Calgary and Sagesse hypothesized that the perceived benefit of peer support, as reported by participants, would be reflected in decreased cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress. Exposure to trauma, which impacts the release of cortisol, has been shown to result in anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress. Further, studies have shown it may impact the circulatory system, weight gain and the risk of chronic disease.

To test this hypothesis, the researchers evaluated the effectiveness of Growth Circle, Sagesse’s 14-week group peer support program. Testing participant hair samples before and after the program, and utilising common sector measurement tools, they found:

• Significant decreases in cortisol levels from before and after participation in the Growth Circle program.
• A significant reduction in perceived stress and increase in safety-related empowerment reflected in common measurement tools (Perceived Stress Scale, Revised Conflict Tactics Scale, Measure of Victim Empowerment Related to Safety).
• Increased social connection between group participants and facilitators, indicated by Outcome Rating Scales and Group Session Rating Scales.

“It’s been extremely gratifying to help Sagesse to demonstrate the effectiveness of their innovative program for survivors of domestic abuse,” said Nicole Letourneau, lead researcher and professor in the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Nursing and Cumming School of Medicine. “Other agencies can look to their example as they decide on what programs to offer—now we know Sagesse’s model works.”

Since its founding, Sagesse has focused on peer support as the best way to remove power differentials, build trust and support community needs. The peer model is easily scaled and applied in any setting, for any audience, including rural and remote communities, equity-deserving and gender-diverse groups. Peer support groups provide the opportunity for participants to gain confidence, share experiences and make social connections. 

“This scientific study has proven what we have heard from thousands of survivors: that each of us, even if we’re not experts, have the power to make a meaningful impact on people who have experienced abuse,” said Carrie McManus, study co-author and Director of Innovation and Programs for Sagesse. “The path to healing is complex, but the support of peers and informal supporters leads to more positive outcomes.”