The viral Ice Bucket Challenge has made a comeback, more than a decade after it helped raise awareness for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but this time with a new focus on mental health. The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge was a viral challenge in 2014 and was originally aimed at raising funds for ALS research, a nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The challenge encouraged participants to pour buckets of ice water over themselves to raise awareness and gain money for the cause.
In March 2025, students at the University of South Carolina launched the #SpeakYourMind campaign through Instagram, aiming to raise awareness for mental health. Founded by Wade Jefferson, a junior at USC who started the Mental Health Needs Discussion (MIND) club after experiencing the tragic loss of friends to suicide, the campaign has already gained significant attention and support.
Similar to in 2014, participants, especially teenagers, have ice water poured on them and then post their videos online, nominating others to join in. It’s a simple challenge to do since water, ice, and a bucket are easily accessible to anybody, which is why this trend has spread to other countries. By being dumped with a bucket of ice water, this dramatic act easily grabs people’s attention. Kendra Hixon, theater teacher at Eaton High School, said, “Ultimately, it’s bringing a message out and bringing some light to a really serious topic.” The act of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to support the cause advocates for the importance of mental health.
At Eaton High School, a trend like this can raise school spirit and morale since many students are participating in the challenge themselves, while also nominating others. Hixon said, “Everybody just gets into it. It’s a fun way of giggling with each other and having fun.” The challenge comes easier for people to post when they know others at the school have done it. A student at EHS who participated, Lila Dejager (26), said, “It brings more people together who wouldn’t normally be together.”
A challenge this movement faces is that many participants don’t fully understand what it’s actually about, and its original message can get lost as it spreads. Hixon said, “I remember it back in the day when it was the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, but I did not know when I got challenged, so I looked [it up].” Many people participate just for fun or to be part of a trend, but the challenge has still made a meaningful impact and has promoted education about mental health, which is a critical topic in today’s society.
So far, the #USCSpeakYourMIND campaign has raised over $242,000 with all proceeds directed towards mental health programs, education and resources. As the challenge gains awareness, it serves as a reminder of the importance of speaking out about mental health and supporting others with issues regarding their wellness.
