Welcome to the Montana Warm Line Blog

Eighty percent of Montana communities have less than 3,000 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 living in these rural communities as well. For those Montanans who live far away from services, there are few options for receiving support for their mental illness. Until now, that is. The Montana Mental Health Association was awarded a grant to create a "Virtual Drop-in Center," that utilized telephone and internet to provide home-based services for people with mental illness. In addition to rural residents, it is the belief of MMHA that this service will also benefit people uncomfortable with going to a 'real' drop-in center, those with physical disabilities, and those with limited mobility.

One of the components of this "Virtual Drop-in Center" is the Warm Line. This is a toll-free line for people with a mental illness who want to talk to a peer (that is a person who is in recovery for his/her own mental illness) about issues they are facing in theri lives or with therir treatment. It provides a friendly and understanding person for those who just need someone to talk to. Call 1-877-688-3377 Monday through Friday from 5:30-9:30 PM or Saturday from 1:00-5:00 PM.

Another component is the Montana Warm Line Blog. This is intended to help Montanans connect to resources and information. In addition, it provides a place to share stories and to connect with others from all over the state. We expect, and require, that all people who choose to participate in this blog do so in a respectful manner. We hope this will remain a safe and healthy space where participants feel heard, respected, and accepted.

Anyone who wants to participate as a blogger who can post to this blog should email info@montanamentalhealth.org so we can enable their email address. Those who do not wish to make posts, should still feel free to add constructive comments.