People placed candles at St. Michael’s Parish on Tuesday to honor individuals suffering from mental illness during a candlelight vigil hosted by NAMI Greater Wheeling. The event combined faith-based support with public testimony from law enforcement to address the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.
Faith-based venues break mental health stigma
Julie Gomez, the executive director of NAMI Greater Wheeling, said the vigil serves as a venue to communicate that “it’s OK to not be OK.” Gomez noted that while the organization works within schools to reach young people, faith-based communities are often the first place individuals turn when they struggle. She stated that conversations from a faith-based perspective are not often available, despite the importance of meeting people where they are. The candlelight vigil is a two-decade tradition that began as a way for families with adult children to express love and thankfulness while discussing their challenges, according to Gomez.
Sheriff Nelson Croft Jr. shares first responder vulnerabilities
Ohio County Sheriff Nelson Croft Jr. spoke at the vigil for the first time in the event’s history. Croft cited the 2017 suicide of a deputy and the daily nature of the mental hygiene process as reasons for his participation. He stated that first responders must have the courage to seek help, noting that “we also have our own vulnerabilities.” Croft mentioned his career experience working with prisoners, stating that nobody is immune from mental illness.
Gomez said Croft’s presence was significant because first responders are often viewed as “impermeable forces” who do not experience struggles. She added that “mental illness and mental health conditions impact all of us” and that showing vulnerability has an impact on everyone.
Mental health awareness vigil timeline
- Event Date: Tuesday (current year)
- Location: St. Michael’s Parish, Wheeling
- Next Event: Scheduled for next year’s mental health awareness week
Common questions about the NAMI Greater Wheeling vigil
What is the primary goal of the NAMI Greater Wheeling vigils?
According to Julie Gomez, the goal is to meet people where they are and break down the stigma of mental illness, specifically by utilizing faith-based perspectives.
Keep reading