Anyone scrolling social media lately has seen the videos of teens pouring ice water on their friends. Although at first glance it may seem like another stupid trend, it is actually the opposite. The videos are encouraging people to open up about their mental health and changing the way mental health is thought and talked about. In a world where nearly half of all teens experience some type of mental health, a trend like this… is definitely not stupid. 

The USC Speak Your Mind Challenge, also known as the #SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge, was initiated in April 2025 by the University of South Carolina’s Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND) club in collaboration with the mental health nonprofit; Active Minds. This campaign aimed to raise awareness about mental health by reviving the 2014 Ice Bucket Challenge format, encouraging participants to pour ice water over themselves and nominate others to do the same. The challenge quickly gathered attention on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, leading to widespread participation across the country and world. Through the viral videos, over 25,000 dollars was raised for mental health related issues. 

The Speak Your Mind Challenge is most popular among high schoolers. Since 42 percent of teens experience mental health issues, a trend like this going viral can have a very positive impact on this age group (Teen Mental Health Facts and Statistics 2024). By bringing awareness to the issue, the negative stigma around mental health will hopefully be eliminated due to the better understanding to the issue. 

“I think the USC speak your mind ice bucket challege is important by breaking the stigma around mental health and advocating for suicide prevention. Not only does it raise awareness for the cause but also encourages donations for it too,” Senior Merryame Hameg said. 

In a generation where social media is so prevalent, witnessing an uplifting trend like this can have a meaningful impact. Mental health is something everyone can struggle with, so it’s crucial to create an environment where people feel comfortable sharing their challenges. Join the conversation about mental health and help to create a supportive community.