Ice Bucket Challenge Returns, Focuses on Mental Health

The Ice Bucket Challenge, originally launched in 2014 to raise funds and awareness for ALS, has made a viral comeback in 2025 with a new focus on mental health. Spearheaded by students at the University of South Carolina's MIND club and supported by the nonprofit Active Minds, the revived challenge encourages participants to post videos pouring ice water over themselves to spark conversations about mental health and raise funds for youth mental health initiatives. The campaign has already raised over $300,000 and garnered millions of views on social media, with organizers and mental health experts highlighting its role in destigmatizing mental health discussions among young people. The movement has drawn praise from those involved in the original ALS fundraising effort, who support its adaptation for this important cause. The challenge aims not only to raise money but also to foster open dialogue about mental health issues, which many say is urgently needed in the current climate. Organizers hope the campaign will have a lasting positive impact on mental health awareness and support.