IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Support Mental Well-being in High-Pressure Jobs – Sample Essays and Analysis

In recent years, the topic of mental well-being in high-pressure work environments has gained significant attention in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This trend reflects the growing awareness of workplace stress and its impact on employee health. Based on past exam patterns and current societal concerns, we can expect this theme to continue appearing in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in recent exams and analyze how to approach it effectively.

Some people believe that employers should provide mental health support for their staff, especially in high-pressure jobs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question focuses on the role of employers in supporting their employees’ mental health, particularly in high-stress work environments. To answer effectively, you should:

1. Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
2. Provide reasons and examples to support your stance
3. Consider potential counterarguments
4. Conclude by summarizing your main points and restating your opinion

Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question – one aiming for a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, the issue of mental health support in the workplace has become increasingly pertinent. I strongly agree that employers should provide mental health support for their staff, especially in high-pressure jobs, as it benefits both the employees and the organization as a whole.

Firstly, offering mental health support demonstrates a company’s commitment to its employees’ overall well-being. High-pressure jobs often lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout, which can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and job performance. By providing resources such as counseling services, stress management workshops, or mindfulness programs, employers show that they value their staff beyond their mere productivity. This approach fosters a positive work culture and enhances employee loyalty and job satisfaction.

Moreover, investing in employees’ mental health can lead to substantial long-term benefits for the company. Mentally healthy employees are more productive, creative, and engaged in their work. They are less likely to take sick leave or leave the company due to stress-related issues, which can result in significant cost savings for the organization. Additionally, companies that prioritize mental health support often enjoy a better reputation, making them more attractive to potential employees and clients alike.

However, some may argue that providing mental health support is not the responsibility of employers and that individuals should manage their own well-being. While personal responsibility plays a role, it is important to recognize that work-related stress is often a result of the work environment itself. Therefore, employers have a duty of care to address these issues at their source.

In conclusion, the benefits of employer-provided mental health support far outweigh any potential drawbacks. By prioritizing employee mental well-being, companies can create a more productive, loyal, and satisfied workforce, ultimately leading to improved business outcomes and a healthier society overall.

(Word count: 298)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

I agree that employers should provide mental health support for their workers, especially in jobs with high pressure. This is important for both the employees and the company.

Firstly, mental health support can help employees deal with stress better. High-pressure jobs can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. If workers have access to counseling or stress management classes, they can learn how to handle these problems. This can make them happier and healthier at work.

Secondly, when companies care about mental health, it can be good for business. Workers who feel supported are more likely to work hard and stay with the company longer. This means the company doesn’t have to spend as much money on hiring and training new people. Also, happy workers usually do a better job, which is good for the company’s success.

However, some people might say that mental health is a personal issue and not the company’s responsibility. They might think it costs too much money to provide these services. But I believe that the benefits for both the workers and the company are worth the cost.

In conclusion, I think employers should definitely provide mental health support, especially in high-pressure jobs. It helps create a better work environment and can lead to better results for the company.

(Word count: 213)

Key Points to Consider When Writing

1. Essay Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more developed ideas and smoother transitions between paragraphs.

2. Language Use: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the main ideas.

3. Argumentation: The Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed reasoning and considers counterarguments, demonstrating a more nuanced understanding of the topic.

4. Examples: Both essays use examples to support their points, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more specific and varied examples.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates better use of linking words and phrases, creating a more cohesive argument.

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. mental well-being (noun) /ˈmen.təl wel-ˈbiː.ɪŋ/: the state of feeling good about yourself and your life
2. high-pressure (adjective) /haɪ ˈpreʃ.ər/: involving a lot of stress and anxiety
3. burnout (noun) /ˈbɜːn.aʊt/: physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress
4. mindfulness (noun) /ˈmaɪnd.fəl.nəs/: the practice of being aware of your body, mind, and feelings in the present moment
5. duty of care (noun phrase) /ˈdjuː.ti əv keər/: the legal obligation to safeguard others from harm while they are in your care
6. work-related stress (noun phrase) /wɜːk rɪˈleɪ.tɪd stres/: stress caused by or made worse by work
7. employee retention (noun phrase) /ɪmˈplɔɪ.iː rɪˈten.ʃən/: the ability of an organization to keep its employees
8. work-life balance (noun phrase) /wɜːk laɪf ˈbæl.əns/: the division of one’s time and focus between working and family or leisure activities

Mental health support in workplace

Conclusion

Supporting mental well-being in high-pressure jobs is a crucial topic in today’s workplace discussions and is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. By practicing with questions like the one analyzed here, you can improve your ability to write coherent, well-structured essays on this subject. Remember to use a range of vocabulary related to mental health and workplace well-being, and aim to provide balanced arguments supported by relevant examples.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The impact of technology on work-related stress
2. The role of work-life balance in maintaining mental health
3. The effectiveness of mandatory mental health programs in the workplace

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare for the exam.