CPSSS should never share 'war stories' (i.e. glorifying substance use) or commiserate around problems or engage in 'system bashing'.

CPSSS should never share 'war stories' (i.e. glorifying substance use) or commiserate around problems or engage in 'system bashing'.

• A. True
• B. Sometimes
• C. Not sure
• D. False

Answer: (A)

Professional boundaries in peer support require conversations to stay focused on the client’s recovery goals and to be respectful and constructive. Sharing vivid “war stories” about past substance use can glamorize or normalize using, which may trigger cravings, shift attention away from the client’s current needs, and undermine hope. Similarly, commiserating about problems or engaging in system bashing can create negativity, erode trust, and reduce the client’s motivation to engage with supports. The role of a CPSSS is to model hopeful, nonjudgmental, strengths-based guidance, help the person build coping skills, and connect them with resources. If a personal experience is shared, it should always reinforce recovery, rather than dwell on past use or grievance, and should never become a venting outlet.

Professional boundaries in peer support require conversations to stay focused on the client’s recovery goals and to be respectful and constructive. Sharing vivid “war stories” about past substance use can glamorize or normalize using, which may trigger cravings, shift attention away from the client’s current needs, and undermine hope. Similarly, commiserating about problems or engaging in system bashing can create negativity, erode trust, and reduce the client’s motivation to engage with supports. The role of a CPSSS is to model hopeful, nonjudgmental, strengths-based guidance, help the person build coping skills, and connect them with resources. If a personal experience is shared, it should always reinforce recovery, rather than dwell on past use or grievance, and should never become a venting outlet.