Montana Warm Line launched

When the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services issued a call for proposals for the creation of new Mental Health Drop-In Centers and new programs at existing Centers, they may not have expected to receive an application for a ‘Virtual' Drop-In Center. But indeed, that is what Tracy Velázquez, then the Executive Director, detailed in her submission from the Montana Mental Health Association.

Eighty percent of Montana communities have less than 3000 residents. Mental health problems don't only affect those living within 10 or 20 miles of a mental health clinic or provider, but many of the people who live in these rural communities, too. The Montana Warm Line is designed to offer support to people with mental illness without the need to travel long distances. It also offers anonymity, which can greatly ease any fear of stigma associated with mental illness. In addition to rural and frontier residents, those with physical disabilities, who lack transportation, or who are uncomfortable going to a physical drop-in center will also benefit.

The Warm Line (1-877-688-3377) is a non-crisis peer support line for people dealing with mental illness. It is accompanied by an informational website (www.montanawarmline.org), weekly Open Chat line, call-in support groups and call-in FYI sessions.

The Warm Line is open Monday through Friday from 5:30 pm-9:30 pm, and on Saturdays from 1 pm to 5 pm. The website is available 24 hours a day, and lists days and times of Open Chat and FYI sessions.

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