A helpline, hotline, or crisis line is a free telephone service offering support, comfort, and resources to those dealing with a mental or emotional health issue—or their loved ones. Many helplines offer different ways to connect with an operator—calling, texting, emailing, or messaging. The person answering your call is usually a trained volunteer who’s ready to listen, offer advice, suggest resources, or connect you to local services if you’re in need of immediate help. In many cases, helpline callers find that simply talking through their problems with someone sympathetic is enough to provide relief.
