Warmlines provide emotional support that can prevent a crisis. Typically staffed by peers (paid or volunteer) that have experience with mental health challenges, warm lines provide comfort and support during challenging times, such as challenges with interpersonal relationships, anxiety, pain, depression, finances, alcohol/drug use, etc.

• Example: California Peer-Run Warmline
  

Crisis Lines (or Hotlines) are intended to be used when a person has suicidal thoughts and/or intent, or another mental health crisis that poses immediate or imminent risk to the caller. Crisis lines, staffed by trained counselors, are more focused on keeping people safe in the moment and getting them connected to crisis resources as quickly as possible.

• Example: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline​