02 Apr NAMI Warm Line Opens April 5

Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) and National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southwest Missouri are excited to announce a collaborative partnership which brings back the Warm Line resource in the Ozarks, beginning Monday, April 5, 2021. 

The Warm Line is non-judgmental and peer operated, providing an understanding voice and support for persons living with mental illness. Operated by mental health consumers for mental health consumers, the line is answered daily between 9am – 9pm. The Warm Line number is (417) 864-3676 or toll free (877) 535-4357. 

“The warm line is an amazing resource for those that need reassurance, encouragement or simply a listening ear. We are so excited to be able to bring this back for our community. In a world where uncertainties are everywhere, the Warm Line can provide comfort and a friendly voice,” said Jess Pratt, Program Coordinator/Warm Line Director at NAMI Southwest Missouri.

In an August 13, 2020 HealthDay News article, “Mental Health Issues Soaring During COVID Pandemic,” the author writes, “A new government report found that about 41% of adults surveyed in late June (2020) ‘reported an adverse mental or behavioral health condition.’” The article continues to document higher cases of anxiety, depression, trauma, and suicidal thoughts in 2020. Results from OACAC’s 2020 Community Needs Assessment corroborate this article, as respondents answered they need increased mental health services across OACAC’s 10-county service area.

“We are excited to partner with NAMI Southwest Missouri to bring back the Warm Line resource in the Ozarks. A large portion of individuals that live in more rural communities as well as those within the more populated areas often don’t have access to mental health resources or if they do, would need to travel a substantial distance to receive services. OACAC is thrilled to be able to collaborate with NAMI to bring back this peer-to-peer resource to individuals seeking a listening ear without having to leave their home,” said Skylar Walker, OACAC CSBG Assistant Director.

In addition to providing support to those calling in, the Warm Line offers access for volunteers to be trained to offer words of encouragement and compassion to mental health consumers in Southwest Missouri. Those interested in volunteering should call (417) 864-3027. Eligibility guidelines apply.