It's back. The latest iteration of the ice bucket challenge is going viral on social media. “The revival of the ice bucket challenge was led by students who wanted to make a difference for youth and young adults’ mental health,” Jessica Mayorga, the Chief Marketing Officer at Active Minds told Parents, online magazine. While it is a good thing so see young people do something to raise mental health awareness, there are some health concerns with the ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE that everyone should be aware of.
Tiffany Fischman, MD, FAAP, a concierge pediatrician at Sollis Health, tells Parents, “There are a couple of physiologic reactions that can occur when a bucket of ice water is poured over someone's head.”
Dr. Fischman warns that two things can occur. First, a cold shock reaction from the ice poured on the head can cause the heart rate to elevate, the blood pressure to rise, and hyperventilation to occur. Conversely, the diving reflex, triggered by water on the face and the person holding their breath, slows the heart rate and breathing down, as the body redirects oxygen to vital organs. She warns that these two contradictory body responses create a potential for arrhythmias, which is an abnormal heart rhythm. “I would not recommend this [challenge] for anyone—young or old—with pre-existing cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Fischman advises. “People on blood pressure medications and/or beta blockers that slow the heart rate could be particularly at risk.”
Jason Reese, a personal injury attorney at Wagner Reese, shares the opinion that, “Parents should make sure that their kids understand the physical dangers and how this type of viral stunt may not be the best way to raise the funds needed to make a difference in the lives of those living with mental health conditions.”
May is Mental Health Awareness month and Stafford SDA Church recommends parent and kids consider two (2) safer and more impactful ways to raise mental health awareness:
- Participate in the May 2, 2025 Walk to Raise Mental Health Awareness organized by Mental Health America, Fredericksburg Region. Read more about the walk here. Stafford SDA Church is proud to be a Bronze Sponsor of this event.
- Donate to the Stafford SDA Church Mental Health Awareness fund. 100% of the funds donated is used to support efforts to address or raise awareness of mental health issues in Stafford County and other local communities in Virginia.
Click here to download a copy of the original article, The Viral Ice Bucket Challenge is Back—With Some Pros and Cons, on Parent online website.