In 2014, the ice bucket challenge was introduced to help raise awareness for ALS, encouraging research and donations for a disease previously mostly unrecognised by the public. It proved extremely successful, with millions participating to spread the word; the challenge eventually raised $115 million for ALS research and to support people living with the disease.

 Recently, the challenge has resurfaced with a new aim of raising awareness for mental health. People across the globe have taken part in the USC ice bucket challenge, dousing themselves in buckets of cold water to warm up the conversation surrounding mental health. This helps bring attention to topics such as self-care, suicide prevention and ending stigma about mental illness. With Mental Health Awareness Week approaching, the challenge has proved a fitting forerunner to bring the topic of mental health into public discussion.

If you haven’t already, you should take on the challenge of the ice bucket and spread the message by nominating your friends!