If a peer asks for advice on a medication that you had negative side effects from, what should your response include?

Providing information about your personal experiences with medication while respecting the peer's autonomy is a compassionate and supportive approach. In this context, your response should focus on sharing your experience candidly, including both the negative side effects you encountered and how that impacted your overall recovery journey. This not only helps the peer make a more informed decision but also reinforces their right to choose what is best for their health.

While it's important to relate your experience, it's equally vital to remind the peer that everyone's response to medication can differ significantly. Therefore, you encourage them to discuss their concerns with a healthcare professional who can provide tailored advice and determine the best course of action based on their unique needs and circumstances. This response supports the peer in their recovery while ensuring they are empowered to make informed choices about their own health, maintaining the principle of autonomy in mental health support.