In this ‘Journeys in Mental Health’ blog, we hear from Dr Xiaofan Yue at Huangshan University who shares their experience since 2023—encompassing…
PLOS Mental Health Collection: The Power of Peers in Times of Crises

At the end of last year, the 7th Global Mental Health Summit asked ‘What has changed? What needs to change?’ when it comes to embracing the insights of those with lived experience to drive transformation and create a more inclusive and compassionate global mental health landscape. This question comes at a time when we are experiencing and witnessing a multitude of unthinkable crises across the globe.
PLOS Mental Health is ready for submissions for this collection as a way to bring us together and truly appreciate the power of peers in times of crises.
We are also privileged to announce that Sir Graham Thornicroft will be serving as a Guest Editor.
All articles accepted for publication as part of the collection will be contextualized and promoted with a special editorial from the journal leaders and Sir Thornicroft. Research Articles are specifically encouraged, including those authored by experts by experience. Other articles types (Opinions, Reviews and Essays) however, will be specifically invited although you are welcome to propose ideas to the Executive Editor. We will initially be accepting submissions until 7th June 2026.
We aim for the collection to explore:
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Lived Experience peer-led interventions in the context of crises (peer support, training, service delivery, supervision).
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Co-design and co-production (research, consent, policy and practice).
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Capacity and resilience building in times of crisis.
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Human Rights and Legal Frameworks.
All topics can apply to local and global contexts.
All Research Article submissions will be subject to our standard peer review processes and therefore publication is not guaranteed. Upon submission, please ensure that you select the ‘Power of Peers’ collection from the ‘Call for Papers’ dropdown menu.
Waivers for publishing charges can be applied for in line with the existing waivers arrangements at PLOS, but there will unfortunately be no waivers that are specific to this collection.