The internet has been getting wet recently! The Ice Bucket Challenge is back in 2025, but this time it’s all about raising awareness for mental health. Students at the University of South Carolina (USC) are leading the charge with the #SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge, which aims to reduce the stigma around mental illness and encourage more open conversations about mental health.
A New Purpose for the Challenge
The Ice Bucket Challenge originally started in 2014 to raise money for ALS research, and it became a huge viral hit, raising over $220 million. This time, the idea is mostly the same—pouring ice water over your head—but the focus is on mental health. Participants are encouraged to share their own experiences, nominate others, and donate to Active Minds, a nonprofit that supports mental health education for young people.
The USC Connection
The challenge was brought back by Wade Jefferson, a student at USC who started the MIND (Mental Illness Needs Discussion) club after losing two friends to suicide. In March 2025, the MIND club launched the #SpeakYourMIND campaign on Instagram to get people talking about mental health. The campaign quickly went viral on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Celebrity Support and Fundraising Success
Celebrities have helped get the word out. Jenna Bush Hager revived the challenge on NBC’s Today Show, nominating stars like Blake Shelton, Jimmy Fallon, and Olivia Munn. Actor Matt Bomer and social media star James Charles also joined in.
As of April 2025, the campaign has raised almost $300,000, surpassing its goal. The funds are going to Active Minds to support mental health programs for young adults.
How to Join
If you want to take part in the #SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge:
- Record a video of yourself pouring ice water over your head.
- Post the video on social media with the hashtags #SpeakYourMIND and #USCMIND.
- Nominate 2-5 friends to join.
- Donate to Active Minds through the campaign’s fundraising page.
- Follow @uscmind and @active_minds on social media to learn more.
Why It Matters
Some people worry that the challenge could make mental health seem too simple or turn it into a contest to see who can get the most views. But the people behind the campaign say the main goal is to get conversations started and give people the resources they need to deal with mental health challenges.
The #SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge shows how social media can help raise awareness about important issues. By using a popular trend, the movement wants to create a community where people feel comfortable talking about mental health.
For more information and to join the challenge, visit Active Minds or follow the campaign on social media.
