Candlight Vigil ‘Shines a Light’ on Mental Health

“One day I decided to cut my wrists with a razor, and that’s basically where my story starts.” 

Amy Nevling stood in front of a crowded room in the State College Municipal Building on Wednesday night. She spoke as part of the tenth annual mental health awareness month candlelight vigil, hosted by the non-profit Skills of Central Pennsylvania.

Nevling said that Skills and its Opportunity Centre Clubhouse program have been invaluable tools on her journey of recovery – but the road to her current self-confidence was long and difficult.

A survivor of sexual abuse at a young age, Nevling struggled with self-harm and suicidal thoughts as she grew up in a combination of adoptive homes, psychiatric hospitals and group homes.

But through the healing power of art and the network of mental health support programs in Centre County, Nevling has become strong enough to share her story with others in the hope of making a difference in her community.

The room was packed, with many of the attendees wearing “Mental Health Matters” shirts and holding electric candles. Although the event was a candlelight vigil, those candles were raised high in celebration, not in mourning.

“We’re reflecting light,” says Skills executive director Wendy Pardee. “We’re shining a light on mental health awareness.”

Skills of Central Pennsylvania, the Jana Marie Foundation and other area non-profits have been on a public awareness campaign this month in recognition of mental health awareness month. In addition to the candlelight vigil, local nonprofits have hosted other events, public art displays and community conversations to eradicate the stigma that often prevents people with mental health issues from seeking help.

“A lot of improvements to the way we as a community think about mental health stem from honest conversations,” says Marisa Brown, director of the Jana Marie Foundation. “When we really engage with an issue like this, we break down barriers.”

Penn State student Adam Ilgen thinks breaking down barriers is a key step in helping people realize how important mental health resources are in his community.

Ilgen, who also spoke at the vigil, has survived emotional abuse, anxiety issues and homelessness. Many people may not give much thought to life skills such as developing a strong work ethic or learning to budget one’s money, but Ilgen says teaching these skills is vital in helping individuals with mental health struggles become productive members of society.

Local resources, including LifeLink PSU and the Centre County Community Residential Rehabilitation program have helped Ilgen gain his independence and confidence. He wants the community to know that the programs tax dollars support are bringing hope and joy to people’s lives everyday.

As the event wrapped up, George Raymond of Opportunity Centre Clubhouse posed a simple challenge to everyone in attendance. 

“After you leave, we ask you to make the choice to hope,” Ryamond said. “Make the choice to dream.”

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