Ice bucket challenge makes comeback for mental health

CHARLOTTE, NC — It’s the challenge going viral and all for a good cause. 

The ice bucket challenge first started nearly a decade ago as a way to bring awareness to ALS. 

The challenge has made a comeback this time for a different cause. 

University of South Carolina students brought the challenge back as the “Speak your mind ice  bucket challenge” to focus on mental health. 

Therapist Maurice Harvey said its a topic that can often be overlooked or stigmatized. 

“I think a lot of people still are under the impression that you can only go see a therapist if something is catastrophically wrong,” Harvey said. 

Harvey said social media and trends like the ice bucket challenge are helping to highlight the importance of mental health. 

“So I thought it was really cool that that awareness came to light. I think  it’s becoming more destigmatized in many communities.” 

As we enter Mental Health Awareness Month Harvey said he hopes more people prioritize their  own mental health and the resources available to them. 

“ It gives you an opportunity to see, you know, what’s available to you. I think that’s super powerful.”