The Sconi

In its first year, UpliftWI, Wisconsin's phone service staffed by individuals with lived experiences in mental health and substance use concerns, answered 16,508 calls for support. Operated by Mental Health America of Wisconsin under a grant from the Department of Health Services (DHS), UpliftWI aims to provide hope and knowledge to those in need.

"UpliftWI's inaugural year has shown it's a critical resource for people experiencing mental health and substance use challenges," said DHS Secretary-designee Kirsten Johnson. "Calling UpliftWI is like talking with a friend. The operators understand the stress of these difficult situations and can help navigate them based on their lived experiences."

Known as a warmline, UpliftWI is a non-emergency program designed to diffuse difficult situations before they escalate into crises through conversations between people with similar life experiences. Staff are available daily from noon to midnight by calling 534-202-5438 and have access to interpreters for non-English speakers.

The staff at UpliftWI are certified peer specialists—individuals who have navigated their own mental health and substance use concerns, completed training, and passed a state exam. They listen to callers' needs, assist with problem-solving, and provide information on community resources if requested. The support offered by UpliftWI is free of charge.

UpliftWI ensures anonymity and confidentiality; callers are not required to provide personal information unless they request additional support.

When seeking grant applications for this project, DHS estimated that a statewide warmline would receive 10,000 to 13,000 calls per year based on regional warmline data in Wisconsin.

Similar support is also available through drop-in visits to peer recovery centers and scheduled overnight stays at peer-run respites. For those experiencing a crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or 911 should be contacted.

Ali Maresh serves as Director while Claire Yunker holds the position of Deputy Director. Specialists include Elizabeth Goodsitt and Jennifer Miller. Media inquiries can be directed to DHSMedia@dhs.wisconsin.gov.

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