Is it appropriate for a Certified Peer Support Specialist to tell a peer what medications you take and the side effects?

• A. It is okay to tell your peer what medications you take and the side effects.
• B. It is never appropriate to discuss medications with peers.
• C. It is not okay to tell your peer what medications you take and the side effects.
• D. It is okay to discuss medications with peers only if the peer is a supervisor.

Answer: (C)

Sharing exact medications you take and their side effects with a peer crosses professional boundaries and can compromise confidentiality. As a Certified Peer Support Specialist, you support recovery by focusing on the peer’s needs, not on disclosing private medical details. Discussing specific drugs or personal side effects can be misinterpreted as medical guidance, may spread inaccurate information, and could blur the line between support and treatment advice, which is the clinician’s role. If a peer asks about medications, steer the conversation toward general information about how treatment can help, encourage speaking with a healthcare provider, and emphasize non-medical coping strategies and resources. This approach protects privacy, maintains trust, and keeps the focus on the peer’s recovery journey.