Ice Bucket Challenge Makes a Splash in 2025 with a New Mission

The Ice Bucket Challenge makes a splash in 2025 with a powerful new mission. Discover how the viral sensation is back to raise awareness for a fresh cause.

The Ice Bucket Challenge Is Back—This Time for Mental Health

Over a decade after the original Ice Bucket Challenge went viral in 2014 to support ALS awareness and research, the iconic campaign is back—with a powerful twist. This time, it’s not just about soaking yourself with ice water for a good cause; it’s about sparking meaningful conversations and supporting youth mental health in a time when it's needed more than ever. Led by students at the University of South Carolina, the student-run MIND Club (Mental Illness Needs Discussion) has launched the #SpeakYourMIND Challenge, a reimagined Ice Bucket Challenge aimed at raising awareness and funds for Active Minds, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization empowering young people to change the conversation around mental health. And just like the original, it’s spreading fast.

A Viral Movement with a Mission

The campaign launched with a heartfelt video showing students braving buckets of ice water while sharing why mental health matters to them. The emotion, energy, and authenticity behind the message resonated instantly. Within days, the #SpeakYourMIND Challenge racked up hundreds of thousands of views, attracted over 2,300 donations, and raised more than $40,000—all in support of mental health education, resources, and advocacy for youth and young adults.

A powerful revival is making waves on social media

“This all started as a random idea during a club meeting,” said Wade Jefferson, sophomore at USC and founder of the MIND Club. “We were talking about how the original Ice Bucket Challenge brought people together in such a powerful way. We wanted to channel that same energy—but for mental health. Seeing it take off like this, with people like Peyton Manning participating, has been incredible.” The movement has already begun trending on Instagram and TikTok, with students, athletes, influencers, and even mental health professionals taking part.

How the #SpeakYourMIND Challenge Works

Taking part in the challenge is easy—and meaningful:

Grab a bucket, some ice, and a friend
Record your challenge and say why mental health matters to you
Tag three others to keep the challenge going
Post on social media and tag @uscmind and @active_minds
Include the donation link to support Active Minds

But the campaign goes far beyond social media trends. It’s about real conversations, tangible support, and long-term change.

A New Era of Mental Health Advocacy

At the heart of the campaign is Active Minds, a nonprofit organization that has spent over two decades empowering students and young adults to prioritize their mental well-being and support one another. “This campaign is everything we believe in—youth-led, bold, and deeply impactful,” said Alison Malmon, Founder & Executive Director of Active Minds. “To see young people take something iconic and reimagine it to destigmatize mental health is nothing short of inspiring. They're not just raising awareness—they're igniting a new movement.” Active Minds currently has more than 600 campus chapters across the U.S., hosting peer-led programs, national campaigns like Send Silence Packing, and resources such as A.S.K. (Awareness, Support, and Knowledge) that help communities build a foundation for lasting mental wellness.

Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

Mental health challenges among young people are at an all-time high. According to the CDC, more than 40% of high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. The need for open dialogue, peer support, and access to resources has never been more urgent. By participating in the #SpeakYourMIND Challenge, people aren’t just raising funds—they’re helping to shift the cultural conversation. They're helping peers know it’s okay to not be okay. They're showing the world that mental health is not a weakness—it’s something we all need to take seriously.

Keep the Momentum Going

Everyone is encouraged to take the challenge, donate, and share educational resources like:

Self-care guides
Crisis support numbers
How to be there for someone in need
Mental health advocacy tips

Whether you’re a student, a parent, an educator, or just someone who believes in mental health, this is your chance to be part of something bigger. A movement led by young people, rooted in compassion, and powered by community. So, are you ready to speak your mind—and soak your head? Grab that bucket. Tag your friends. Start the conversation.

About Active Minds

Active Minds is the largest youth mental health nonprofit in the U.S., working to empower students and young adults to change mental health culture. With programming on over 1,000 campuses and in countless communities, Active Minds is building a future where mental health is talked about openly, resources are accessible, and every young person knows they’re not alone. Through innovative campaigns, peer support, and nationwide advocacy, Active Minds is transforming how mental health is viewed, supported, and addressed.