THIS MAY BE THE BEST WAY TO FIGHT THE LONELINESS YOU COULD BE FEELING THIS TIME OF YEAR

By Kristina Benoist

This year has been such a reminder to all of us that we need to be supported and connected. But what if you’re struggling to find the right person to talk to? Enter warmlines. Warmlines were created to give you support when you just need to talk to someone. And you don’t need to be actively struggling or in a crisis to give them a call. They’re just ready to support in whatever way they can — even if it’s just lending an ear while you talk.

A warmline is something all of us can be using (especially now). So we chatted with mental health advocate (and a current warmline listener) Juan Acosta to cover what you need to know about picking up your phone and calling into a warmline.

It’s a conversation with a real person

A warmline isn’t an advice line, but more of just a conversation with another person. It takes out all of the mental health jargon that you may experience when you’re talking with your doctor or therapist. Calling a warmline is like talking with a friend, it’s not medical or robotic. It’s all about just having a really kind and human conversation with someone else.

Warmlines are run by peers

A peer is typically someone who has lived experience with mental health struggles of some kind. Most warmlines are run by peers, which means you can call in and you're met with other people who have gone through similar struggles. You’re able to easily find common themes with one another. It reminds you that you’re not alone in whatever you’re feeling.

They’re accessible by phone, text, chat

Warmlines are really accessible. Sometimes people don’t realize they have amazing resources at their fingertips. All you have to do is dial a phone number and you’ll get connected with someone and start receiving support. Some warmlines even have texting options or live chats, if you’re feeling hesitant about calling in.

Some warmlines work to match your preferred language

Language barriers are something that might prevent you from calling many of these lines because you might think they don’t speak your preferred language. Some warmlines use a program called Language Link where they connect you with numerous translators who are able to help people in need, no matter what language they speak.

Warmlines are free

You might think that mental health support is inaccessible due to price or due to a lack of healthcare coverage. Although that’s true in some cases, a warmline is a resource where you don't have to worry about that. It’s free and accessible to everyone.

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There are warmlines in every state in the US, which means there are many opportunities to connect with other people and to fight off the loneliness that you may be feeling right now. A lot of warmline locations are open 24/7, 365 days a year — even during the holidays. Find a warmline in your area here.

If you’re in crisis and need more support than a warmline, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or text IDM to 741741.

5 Things You Should Know About Warmlines