For individuals in Wisconsin seeking emotional support, connection, or a listening ear, the WIMA Warmline offers a valuable resource. Operated by Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. (WIMA), the warmline is a free, peer-run service that provides non-crisis support to people experiencing emotional distress, loneliness, or challenges with mental health and substance use. Unlike traditional crisis lines, which are designed to respond to immediate, life-threatening situations, the WIMA Warmline focuses on providing calm, empathetic conversations to help individuals manage their day-to-day struggles.
What Is a Warmline?
A warmline differs from a crisis line in several important ways. While a crisis line is geared toward urgent situations, such as someone experiencing suicidal thoughts or a mental health emergency, a warmline is designed for non-crisis situations. People often call a warmline when they’re feeling down, stressed, or overwhelmed but don’t require immediate intervention.
“The WIMA Warmline is here for anyone who needs a supportive conversation,” says Andrew Garr, Program Director at Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance. “You don’t need to be in a crisis to call. Sometimes you just need to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through.”
The warmline is staffed by trained peer supporters—people who have personal experience with mental health challenges or substance use. These peer supporters understand the importance of feeling heard and offer non-judgmental, compassionate conversations that can help callers feel less isolated.
The Power of Peer Support
The WIMA Warmline embraces the peer support model, where people with shared experiences connect and offer mutual support. This unique approach creates an environment where callers can open up about their struggles with someone who truly understands. Peer supporters don’t diagnose or offer professional therapy. Instead, they listen, empathize, and help callers explore ways to navigate their emotions and challenges.
“Talking to someone who’s been there can make all the difference,” explains Andrew. “We’re here to offer support and encouragement, and sometimes that’s what people need more than anything—a sense of connection and understanding.”
When to Call the Warmline
Anyone in Wisconsin can call the WIMA Warmline at (715) 505-5641 for free, confidential support. People call for a variety of reasons—whether they’re feeling lonely, overwhelmed by daily stress, or just need to talk through their feelings with someone who understands. Callers don’t have to worry about meeting any specific criteria to use the service. If someone is looking for emotional support or connection, the warmline is there for them.
The Warmline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing a consistent, reliable resource.
A Bridge Between Everyday Support and Crisis Intervention
While the WIMA Warmline is not intended for crisis situations, it can still be an important bridge for those who are struggling emotionally and may be on the verge of crisis. Peer supporters can support callers to manage stress, explore coping strategies, and recommend additional resources if needed. If someone calls the warmline in crisis, peer supporters will offer guidance on how to connect with local crisis services for immediate intervention.
However, the warmline’s primary goal is to prevent situations from escalating by providing a safe space for people to talk about their feelings and concerns before they reach a critical point.
Why Warmline Services Matter
Warmline services like WIMA’s fill a vital gap in mental health care. Many people don’t need clinical intervention but still feel overwhelmed, lonely, or emotionally drained. Warmline conversations offer a way for individuals to connect, process their emotions, and find reassurance, which can prevent them from feeling isolated or misunderstood.
For those who are hesitant to reach out to a crisis line, the warmline offers a more relaxed, non-urgent form of support. There’s no pressure to act or feel a certain way—just an open, supportive conversation where the caller is in control.
How to Reach the WIMA Warmline
If you or someone you know could benefit from a warm, understanding conversation, the WIMA Warmline can be reached at (715) 505-5641 24 hours a day. Peer supporters are ready to listen and provide support, free of charge, for anyone in Wisconsin.
Andrew Garr is the Program Director at Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. He has been involved in peer support and mental health advocacy for over a decade.
Editors Note: The WIMA Warmline call center is located in Menomonie.
