By Kai Bwor

The 2014 Ice Bucket Challenge became a global phenomenon, raising millions for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) research and turning social media into a force for change. As with many trends that rise and fads, this challenge has returned more than a decade later, but with a renewed purpose. 

From celebrities like Justin Bieber to Oprah, the revived movement has shifted its focus to mental health awareness through USC’s SpeakYourMIND campaign, bringing attention to the importance of open conversations and community support.

The #SpeakYourMIND campaign launched on Instagram in March. The challenge follows a familiar format to raise funds for Active Minds, a nonprofit dedicated to mobilizing youth and transforming mental health norms. Participants pour ice water over themselves, post their videos, and nominate others to join while emphasizing the importance of open conversations about mental health. 

Donations from the campaign support Active Minds, the largest nonprofit in the United States focused on reducing the stigma surrounding youth and young adult mental health.

“I think the nominations spread so quickly because so many people are connected, almost like a spider web,” junior Benjamin Valverde said. “The word traveled fast, making it an easy and effective way to raise awareness about mental health. It spread through social media, and since everyone is on social media, the message reached people faster than I expected.”

Wade Jefferson, a junior at USC, created the MIND club, which started the challenge, after losing two friends to suicide, according to NBC News. He initially set the fundraising goal of $500, expecting the challenge to remain within campus. However, the campaign has surpassed one hundred $90,000 for Active Minds, raising its target to $250,000.

Some have raised concerns that the viral trend may overshadow the original 2014 Ice Bucket Challenge, which was created to spread awareness for ALS. Others have admitted they participated without fully understanding its purpose, simply engaging in the challenge as a social media trend. However, others embraced it as a way to spark conversation and connect with friends, making the experience both fun and meaningful. 

“At first, I was nervous about getting nominated, but then it happened three times,” said sophomore Daniel Garzon. “When I got home, I started filling up a bucket, and my mom had the idea of climbing a ladder to dump it on me. After that, I nominated a few friends and kept seeing more and more people doing the same. It spread so fast, and it was interesting to see how quickly everyone got involved.”

Despite some mixed reactions, the SpeakYourMIND challenge has sparked important conversations about mental health. Although some joined for the viral trend, others resonated with the cause and its message. As the challenge continues to spread, its impact goes beyond pouring ice water, encouraging people to recognize the importance of mental health awareness.