ALS Ice Bucket Challenge returns to support mental health awareness
The Ice Bucket Challenge is back, but this time for a new cause. The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge that took social media by storm in the summer of 2014 is making a comeback, but with a twist. This time, the challenge is in support of mental health awareness, specifically for teens and young adults.
The original ALS Ice Bucket Challenge was a huge success, raising $115 million towards ALS research and patient care. Now, the challenge has been revived by USC Mind, the University of South Carolina’s Mental Illness Needs Discussion club, in support of Active Minds, the country’s largest mental health nonprofit for teens and young adults.
The #SpeakYourMind Ice Bucket Challenge has gained traction on social media and has already raised nearly $400,000 on the event’s fundraising site. However, the revival of the challenge has sparked some controversy, with some questioning whether it takes attention away from ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that still does not have a cure.
ALS patient and influencer Brooke Eby expressed her frustration on social media, stating, “Watching people steal the ALS ice bucket challenge for a different cause when ALS still doesn’t have a cure and is 100% fatal. Fuming.” Despite the controversy, the ALS Association and Active Minds have announced that they are teaming up for the new Ice Bucket Challenge for the month of May, which is both Mental Health Awareness Month and ALS Awareness Month.
Michael Stone, another ALS patient, emphasized the importance of raising awareness for ALS, stating that funding leads to research and ultimately a cure. He noted that the original ALS Ice Bucket Challenge “changed lives” and sparked a worldwide effort to fund life-changing research for the disease.
Brian Frederick, the ALS Association’s chief marketing and communications officer, expressed support for the revived movement, stating that while mental health is an important issue, ALS is still a fatal disease in urgent need of a cure. Frederick highlighted the impact of the original Ice Bucket Challenge, which led to significant advancements in ALS research and care services.
Cathy Cummings, CEO of the International Alliance of ALS/MND Associations, acknowledged the mental health challenges faced by many people with ALS and their caregivers, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness around mental health to support the ALS community.
In a joint press release, the ALS Association and Active Minds announced their collaboration for the new Ice Bucket Challenge, aiming to raise awareness for both mental health and ALS during the month of May. The challenge serves as a reminder of the power of activism and fundraising in driving research and support for important causes.
As the Ice Bucket Challenge continues to gain momentum, it serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that collective action can have in supporting those affected by devastating diseases and mental health challenges. The challenge remains a symbol of hope and solidarity, inspiring individuals to come together to make a difference in the fight against ALS and mental illness.
