California launches first toll-free line for mental health assistance

Californians can now dial a toll-free number for mental health assistance.

The California Peer-Run Warm Line officially opened Monday, offering free non-emergency emotional support and referrals to anyone in the state. The debut comes just days before World Mental Health Day.

The number is 1-855-845-7415.

The California Peer-Run Warm Line will initially be staffed for the following hours:

Mondays to Fridays: 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Sundays: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

The call center is expected to be staffed 24/7 by the end of the year.

People can receive support from the line by either phone call or instant message.

The hotline is funded for three-years by the state budget for $10.8 million.

According to Mental Health America, about one in five adults in the nation experience mental health challenges in a given year.

Again, the number for the California Peer-Run Warm Line is 1-855-845-7415.

KEYT 2019