Inspired by the viral Ice Bucket Challenge that raised over $160 million for ALS research in 2014, the #SpeakYourMIND campaign was launched on Instagram by the Mental Illness Needs Discussion (MIND) club at USC in March. 

Aiming to “emphasize the importance of speaking candidly about mental health,” MIND reimagined a viral trend for Gen Z on the biggest social media platforms: Instagram and TikTok. 

The challenge follows a simple format: Participants pour ice water over themselves (or have someone else do it for them), post the videos on social media, and nominate others to join. The singular act of nomination has triggered a ripple effect, with many people jumping in and treating it like a viral “relay game.” Teens–especially high school students–are enthusiastically participating, using the trend as both an awareness campaign and a fun social activity. 

It has been especially popular among our Lakers on campus as well. So far, over 60 students have already participated. “It’s something that people do specifically to bring awareness to mental health, and it’s everywhere on Instagram and TikTok now,” said senior Samira Hamdan, who completed the challenge during Easter weekend. 

In preparation for the Mental Health Awareness Month this May, MIND is hosting a panel featuring student mental health advocates, licensed counselors, and local creators who have taken part in the challenge, hoping to expand the conversation beyond social media.

Whether it’s about showing vulnerability, raising awareness, or simply standing up for mental health while having fun, this challenge is a reminder that even freezing cold water means something powerful: connection with friends from all over the world.