In the summer of 2014, over 17 million people around the world participated in dumping water over their heads and donating to ASL organizations to raise awareness. This challenge raised over 115 million dollars in funding research including disease model development and the identification of biomarkers, as well as spreading awareness about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or ASL. This led to a lasting improvement in patient care and support services to the disease. The participants of the challenge would dump water over their head, often being filmed to challenge others and pledge to donate to the cause.
Now, in 2025, the challenge is back with a different cause: Mental health awareness. The movement, “SpeakYourMind” Ice Bucket Challenge is now challenging people to pour water over their heads and challenge others to participate in the new ice bucket challenge.
But, why is there a revival of the ice bucket challenge?
“The #SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge is a launching point for us all to proudly commit our support to changing how mental health is viewed and prioritized in society and supporting the young people leading this crucial movement.” stated USC MIND website.
MIND, “Mental Illness Needs Discussion” prioritizes and values mental health for young people suffering from a serious mood disorder. The organization hopes for the support of people to further the word about how serious mental illness can impact young people.
Many Castaic High School students are participating in the USC SpeakYourMind Ice Bucket challenge to join in the trend in raising awareness.
“I’ve heard it from my friends, they asked me if I wanted to do it to spread awareness for mental health. I hope that young people suffering from a mental illness should get better and get the treatment they need. I would encourage more people to join in the cause to get more awareness,” expressed Castaic 10th grader, Lawrence Pallette.
The ASL community brought attention to the new rebranding of the ice bucket challenge and shared their thoughts about the new cause of the ice bucket challenge.
“Watching people steal the ALS ice bucket challenge for a different cause when ALS still doesn’t have a cure and is 100% fatal. Fuming.” stated Brooke Eby, an ALS patient and influencer, who shares her experience living with ALS.
Despite the difference of both causes, it’s important to know that it’s to spread awareness about mental illness affecting young people. ALS might not have a cure, but with the donations made from the past, treatment can be furthered so that ALS is less impactful.
“Despite the original cause for this challenge not having a solution, the new cause for this challenge is still a good idea. Some people are forgetting to mention what the USC Ice Bucket Challenge is for though, which defeats the purpose of raising awareness for mental health,” stated 9th grader, Amber Nguyen.
The USC Ice Bucket Challenge not only brought laughter and excitement to Castaic students but also raised crucial awareness and funds for young people affected by a mental illness. Without the previous predecessor of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge impact, this wouldn’t be able to be done.
