JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

For people experiencing substance use or gambling disorders, peer-based online forums are a space where they can share their experiences, gather around a collective goal, and find mutual support. Online peer support can help to overcome barriers to attending face-to-face meetings by enabling people experiencing addiction to seek support beyond their physical location and with the benefit of anonymity if desired. Understanding who participates in peer-based online forums (and how), and the principles underpinning forums, can also assist those interested in designing or implementing similar platforms.

Objective:

Our objective was to review the literature on how people experiencing substance use or gambling disorders, and/or their family, friends, and supporters, use and participate in peer-based online forums. Specifically, we asked the research questions: (1) What are the characteristics of people who use peer-based online substance use or gambling-focused forums? (2) How do people participate in peer-based online forums? (3) What are the key principles reportedly underpinning the peer-based online forums? (4) What are the reported outcomes of peer-based online forums?

Methods:

Scoping review

Results:

Of the 13 included studies, the majority of peer-based online forums reported were aimed specifically for, or largely used by, people experiencing alcohol problems. Results from the nine studies that did report demographic data suggest forum users were typically women, aged in their 40s or early 50s. Participation in peer-based online forums was reported quantitatively and qualitatively. The forums reportedly were underpinned by a range of key principles, mostly mutual help approaches and recovery identity formation. Only three included studies reported on outcomes for forum users.

Conclusions:

Peer-based online forums are used by people experiencing addiction in a number of ways, to share information and experiences, and give and receive support. Seeking support online offers an alternative approach to traditional face-to-face support options, and may reduce some barriers to engaging in peer support.