RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has announced new text and chat options for the North Carolina Peer Warmline, expanding access to around-the-clock support for people experiencing mental health or substance use challenges.
Operated by Promise Resource Network, the NC Peer Warmline (1-855-PEERS-NC) is a free and confidential service staffed by Certified Peer Support Specialists—individuals with lived experience navigating mental health or substance use disorders.
State officials say the addition of text and chat services will make it easier for more North Carolinians to receive help during difficult moments.
“Text and chat options will increase access to the Peer Warmline and allow more people to receive support during critical moments in their lives,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “The Peer Warmline is an important part of our efforts to support brain health and build a mental health care system in North Carolina that works for everyone.”
Since launching in March 2024, the warmline has received more than 130,000 calls through February 2026. According to NCDHHS, nearly 40 percent of callers were referred to mental health providers, while 29 percent received assistance with sheltering. Others were connected with medical care, food assistance and employment services.
Kelly Crosbie, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services, emphasized the value of peer support.
“Speaking, texting or chatting with someone who has experienced the same challenges you are going through makes all the difference in the world,” Crosbie said. “The Peer Warmline helps people when they are most vulnerable and ensures they are connected with the right resources.”
NCDHHS awarded Promise Resource Network a three-year grant in 2023 to establish the warmline. In fiscal year 2025-26, the state allocated $1.65 million in funding to support 30 peer support specialists and expand services to include text and chat options.
The Peer Warmline also works alongside the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Nearly 20 percent of warmline calls are transferred from 988, providing callers with additional peer-based support. Officials noted that more than 45 percent of 988 callers are repeat users, many of whom express interest in speaking with someone who has lived experience.
“The success of the North Carolina Peer Warmline demonstrates the extraordinary impact of lived experience to inspire hope, create connection, and work through distress to support healing in communities across our state,” said Cherene Allen-Caraco, founder and CEO of Promise Resource Network.
The warmline is part of NCDHHS’ broader crisis response system, which includes mobile crisis teams, Community Crisis Centers and Open Access/Walk-in Clinics. Research has shown that warmlines can reduce hospitalizations and emergency room visits while improving collaboration with clinical care teams and families.
North Carolinians seeking support can access the NC Peer Warmline 24 hours a day, seven days a week by phone, text or online chat.
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