Dot gov

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

HTTPS

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock () or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Crisis Services: Someone to Talk to

When life gets overwhelming, it helps to know you aren't alone. This page includes support services that you can call, text, or message online for all types of issues that can cause emotional distress, such as:

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Divorce or relationship challenges
  • Grief or loss
  • Substance use
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Violent or abusive situations

The people who answer are trained to help you find stable ground. They can define the best next steps to help you with your challenge. There aren't scripts or pre-made solutions.

Four things to know before you call or text

  • For medical, police, or fire emergencies, call 911
  • Many helplines, hotlines, and text services are available at no cost to the caller. Some helplines, hotlines, and text services may charge a fee or dispatch services that may come with a cost. If this is a concern, you can ask what the organization's policy is regarding cost at any time. Message and data rates may apply. 
  • Many of the resources listed here may use restrictive interventions, like active rescues, wellness or welfare checks, involving law enforcement or emergency services. You can ask if this is a possibility at any point in your conversation if this is a concern for you.
  • If you're only seeking information on resources available in your community, not immediate counseling, call 211.

Helplines

Use these resources to call, text, or message online to talk to someone during a mental health emergency.

County Crisis Line
Find your county from the list

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 or use the online chat 24/7

HOPELINE
Text HOPELINE to 741741

Veterans Crisis Line
Call 988, press 1
Text 838255

Disaster Distress Helpline
Call or text 800-985-5990

Farmer Wellness Helpline
Call 888-901-2558

Trans Lifeline
Call 877-565-8860

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ)
Call 866-488-7386
Text START to 678678

Warmlines

Warmlines are operated by peers, people with life experiences similar to yours. They listen without judgment and use their training and own experiences to help you steer clear of a mental health crisis before it happens. There are many warmlines in Wisconsin. All warmlines are non-emergency sources of support.

NOTE: Some warmlines may not answer your call immediately. You may be asked to leave a voicemail and wait for a call back.

Available to all state residents
534-202-5438 (Operated by Mental Health America of Wisconsin)

Available to all state veterans
262-336-9540 (Operated by The R&R House Peer-Run Respite)

Available to state members of the Hmong community
800-293-7080 (Operated by the Wisconsin United Coalition of Mutual Assistance Association)

Difference between 211, 988, and 911

There are many three-digit calling codes for help in Wisconsin. The "In Wisconsin, Help is 3 Numbers Away" infographic can help you understand the difference between 211, 988, and 911. It is available in English, Spanish, and Hmong. 

Last revised August 31, 2023