Peer support strengthens connection and resilience in the workplace. However, when care is not balanced with boundaries, it can become emotionally draining — particularly for individuals who naturally take on supportive roles.
Sustainable peer support ensures that care remains helpful, healthy, and consistent over time.
Why Sustainability Matters
In many teams, a small number of individuals may become informal “go-to” supporters. While well-intentioned, this can lead to emotional fatigue, frustration, or disengagement if boundaries are unclear.
When peer support becomes overwhelming, both the supporter and the colleague may be negatively affected. Sustainability protects everyone involved.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Sustainable peer support includes being clear about what one can reasonably offer. Healthy boundaries may involve:
- Listening without taking responsibility for outcomes
- Avoiding the role of counsellor or problem-solver
- Encouraging shared responsibility within the team
- Knowing when to involve managers or formal support channels
Boundaries are not barriers to care — they allow care to continue without causing harm.
Making Well-Being a Shared Responsibility
Peer support is most effective when it is distributed across teams rather than concentrated in a few individuals. When organisations provide clear guidance, training, and leadership support, employees feel more confident offering help without overextending themselves.
Approaches such as Psychological First Aid support this shared responsibility by clarifying roles, expectations, and appropriate responses.
Supporting Others While Staying Well
Caring for colleagues does not mean neglecting one’s own well-being. Taking breaks, seeking supervision or support, and stepping back when needed are all part of sustainable care.
When employees feel permitted to look after themselves while supporting others, peer support becomes a long-term strength rather than a source of burnout — contributing to healthier individuals and more resilient workplaces.
