The Ice Bucket Challenge was a popular challenge for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) in 2014. It has recently made a resurgence in raising awareness for mental health by students in the University of South Carolina’s MIND (Mental Illness Needs Discussion) club. People all over the country are participating to help to raise awareness.
According to NBC News as of April 19, over $100,000 has been raised through the ice bucket challenge, and the founder of the Speak Your Mind organization, Addison Malmon, lost her brother to suicide 25 years ago. The hope for this trend is to spark awareness in youth and young adults to begin the conversation on mental health awareness.
The USC Ice Bucket Challenge began in March and has recently become a big trend for Highlands students to participate. After one student is nominated to do this trend it spreads to the rest of the student population.
“This challenge means supporting the mental health of those struggling and being a good enough person that if someone is struggling, they trust the participants enough to go to them,” Gabe Williams (10) said.
Mental health is a big issue that many people currently struggle with, even when it isn’t always noticeable. It is important to keep in mind the reason for bringing awareness to mental health struggles whilst participating in it. The ice bucket challenge helps remind people what they are doing this trend for.
“This challenge represents the symbol of the shock of cold water, similar to how mental health struggles can be overwhelming and sudden. Check up on your friends and take care of yourself. spark conversation and encourage others to raise awareness of mental health,” Marley Berkley (11) said.
The USC ice bucket challenge has gained popularity throughout the nation, which has helped for money to be raised as well as awareness. Whilst not every participant has a personal attachment to the topic, by participating they are helping to raise awareness and money for the Speak Your Mind organization.
“I think it’s really important to spread awareness about mental health and I think it’s also very cool we could get our community together and all do this challenge,” Liam Delaney (12) said.
Bringing awareness in the youth is very important as many people suffering from mental health issues are teenagers and it is important for these people to know that they have people that they can talk to.
“This challenge means something to me because I have struggled with mental health so it’s great to see awareness,” Lexi Zins (11) said.
Many people enjoy this challenge and find it a fun way to bring awareness to an important topic that many people struggle with.
“The spreading awareness of mental health, especially suicide, is extremely important to me. It was a fun challenge too, other than having my clothes be soaked,” Parker Pope (9) said.
The USC Ice Bucket Challenge helps to bring support and awareness to struggles that people face daily. With this challenge, people can learn to show support for one another and build a safe community within school where people are able to reach out for help when needed.
