Instrumental support refers to the provision of tangible assistance that directly helps someone in their recovery journey. This support can take many forms, such as helping an individual with practical tasks, providing financial assistance, or helping them access resources that facilitate their recovery. In the context of peer recovery, instrumental support might include assisting a peer in finding housing, providing transportation to meetings, or helping with job resources.
This form of support is critical because it addresses immediate needs that, if unmet, could hinder the recovery process. For individuals in recovery, having access to material aid can alleviate stressors and help create a stable foundation upon which they can build their recovery. It emphasizes actionable assistance rather than just emotional encouragement or sharing information, which may not be sufficient on their own in moments of crisis or need. Other types of support, while vital in their own right, focus more on emotional reassurance, social connections, or the sharing of knowledge rather than the direct provision of tangible help.