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The USC Speak Your Mind Challenge, also known as the #SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge, refers to the Ice Bucket Challenge started by the mental health awareness non-profit Active Minds and the University of South Carolina (USC). With a greater focus on mental health, this challenge is an updated version of the 2014 ice bucket challenge.
The University of South Carolina (USC)’s Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND) club launched the #SpeakYourMIND Ice Bucket Challenge on March 31, 2025, with an Instagram Reel. The video got more than 12,400 likes within 15 days. The internet challenge went viral on TikTok and Instagram as people nominated each other to pour a bucket of ice water on themselves, much like the viral 2014 trend.
According to Max, a 11th grader, being nominated for the USC Ice Bucket Challenge was both exciting and nerve-wracking. “I felt excited but also a bit nervous,” he shared. At first, Max admitted he was unsure about participating. “I did hesitate because I was kinda shy,” he explained, “but I still decided to do the challenge because it helps raise awareness in support of suicide prevention.” In the end, Max was glad he took part in it. “After doing the challenge, I felt good, it was pretty fun, and I was happy to help spread awareness about mental health.”
Kira, an 11th grader, was initially unsure about participating in the USC Ice Bucket Challenge. “At first I didn’t want to do it,” she admitted, “but then I learned that it was for a good cause and everyone else was doing it, so I did it.” Being surrounded by supportive friends also helped ease his hesitation. “I did it with a whole group of friends, so I wasn’t hesitant because everyone was doing it,” she said.
Cash, an 11th grader, said that his first reaction to being nominated for the Ice Bucket Challenge wasn’t exactly positive. “I was mad that my friend was making me dump water on myself,” he said, “but then eventually I was over it.” Although he was hesitant at first, Cash changed his mind after learning more about the cause behind the challenge. “Yes, I was hesitant! But then I looked into why we were doing it, and I was happy to do it,” he explained. In the end, the experience turned out to be a memorable one. “It was funny when my friends and I did it to each other,” Cash said. “It was uncomfortable but fun!”
Shortly after, a fundraising donation page was set up on Active Minds’ website, and by April 15, 2025, the amount had already exceeded $24,100. Through social media engagement and community participation, the challenge continues to inspire action and bring attention to the importance of mental wellness.
