If a consumer's diet concerns mental health and is outside the Peer Support Specialist's scope, what is an appropriate next step?

• A. Schedule a group discussion with peers.
• B. Collaborate with the treatment team to refer the consumer to the primary care physician to address the concern.
• C. Provide general nutrition tips without professional guidance.
• D. Tell the consumer to ignore the concerns.

Answer: (B)

When a concern crosses from support into medical territory, the next step is to involve the treatment team and connect the consumer with appropriate medical care. Diet-related mental health issues can involve physical health factors that only a physician can evaluate, so collaborating with the team to refer to the primary care physician ensures a proper medical assessment.

A PCP can check for nutritional deficiencies, metabolic or endocrine issues, medication effects, or conditions like eating disorders, and determine if a nutritionist or other specialist is needed. The peer supports the person by listening, validating, and coordinating steps, but does not provide medical or clinical nutrition guidance.

In short, bring the concern to the treatment team and arrange a referral to the primary care physician to address any medical factors affecting mental health.