Mental health has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, with more attention being paid to how societies and governments can better handle these issues. This topic is highly relevant for IELTS Writing Task 2, as it touches on social, health, and governmental aspects that are frequently tested. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, questions related to mental health have appeared multiple times, and we can expect this trend to continue given its growing importance globally.
One recent IELTS question on this topic was:
Mental health issues are becoming increasingly common in many countries. What are some possible reasons for this? What measures can be taken to address this problem?
Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
This question has two parts:
- Reasons for increasing mental health issues
- Measures to address the problem
To fully answer the question, you need to:
- Discuss at least 2-3 reasons for the rise in mental health problems
- Suggest 2-3 concrete measures to tackle these issues
- Provide examples and explanations to support your points
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Mental health disorders have been on the rise globally, posing significant challenges to individuals, communities, and healthcare systems. This essay will explore some of the potential causes behind this trend and propose measures to effectively address this growing concern.
There are several factors contributing to the increasing prevalence of mental health issues. Firstly, the fast-paced and highly competitive nature of modern society has led to heightened stress levels and anxiety among individuals. The constant pressure to succeed in both personal and professional spheres can take a toll on mental well-being. Secondly, the pervasive use of social media and digital technologies has resulted in decreased face-to-face interactions and a sense of social isolation, which are known risk factors for depression and other mental health disorders. Lastly, the stigma surrounding mental health in many cultures prevents people from seeking help early, leading to worsening of conditions that could have been managed more effectively if addressed promptly.
To tackle this problem, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. One crucial measure is to improve mental health education and awareness programs in schools and workplaces. By promoting understanding of mental health issues and teaching coping strategies from an early age, we can build a more resilient population. Additionally, governments should invest in expanding access to mental health services, including increasing the number of mental health professionals and integrating mental health care into primary healthcare systems. Finally, public campaigns to reduce stigma and normalize conversations about mental health can encourage more people to seek help when needed, leading to earlier interventions and better outcomes.
In conclusion, while the reasons behind the rise in mental health issues are complex, there are concrete steps that societies and governments can take to address this challenge. By focusing on education, improving access to care, and reducing stigma, we can work towards creating a more mentally healthy and resilient population.
Mental health awareness and education programs in schools
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent use of language and addresses all parts of the question thoroughly:
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Task Response (Band 8-9): The essay fully addresses both parts of the question, providing three clear reasons for the increase in mental health issues and three corresponding measures to address the problem. Each point is well-developed with explanations and examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion (Band 8-9): The essay is logically organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “Firstly”, “Secondly”, “Lastly”, “Additionally”, “Finally”) to link ideas within and between paragraphs.
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Lexical Resource (Band 8-9): The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. It includes topic-specific terms (e.g., “mental health disorders”, “healthcare systems”, “social isolation”) and sophisticated phrases (e.g., “pervasive use”, “multi-faceted approach”, “reducing stigma”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 8-9): The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly. It includes complex sentences and various grammatical features without noticeable errors.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Mental health problems are becoming more common in many countries nowadays. This essay will discuss some reasons for this trend and suggest ways to solve this issue.
One reason for the increase in mental health problems is the high stress of modern life. Many people have to work long hours and face a lot of pressure at their jobs. This can make them feel anxious or depressed. Another reason is that people are spending more time on social media and less time talking to others face-to-face. This can make them feel lonely and isolated, which is bad for mental health.
To address this problem, governments can take several steps. First, they should provide more funding for mental health services in hospitals and clinics. This will help more people get the treatment they need. Schools should also teach students about mental health and how to manage stress. This can help young people develop good mental health habits early in life. Finally, companies should be encouraged to create better work-life balance for their employees, such as offering flexible working hours or mental health days.
In conclusion, while there are several reasons for the rise in mental health issues, there are also ways to tackle this problem. By improving healthcare services, education, and workplace policies, we can help create a society with better mental health.
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good use of language and addresses the main parts of the question:
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Task Response (Band 6-7): The essay addresses both parts of the question, providing two reasons for the increase in mental health issues and three measures to address the problem. The ideas are relevant but could be more fully developed with more specific examples or explanations.
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Coherence and Cohesion (Band 6-7): The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. It uses some cohesive devices (e.g., “One reason”, “Another reason”, “First”, “Finally”) to link ideas, although these could be more varied.
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Lexical Resource (Band 6-7): The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary related to the topic. While there are some good phrases (e.g., “work-life balance”, “flexible working hours”), the language could be more sophisticated and varied.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 6-7): The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major grammatical errors, but the range of structures could be wider to achieve a higher band score.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Mental health disorders (noun) – /ˈmen.təl helθ dɪsˈɔː.dəz/ – conditions that affect a person’s thinking, feeling, mood or behavior
- Prevalence (noun) – /ˈprev.əl.əns/ – the fact of something being very common or widespread
- Stigma (noun) – /ˈstɪɡ.mə/ – strong disapproval of something, especially when it is unfair
- Resilient (adjective) – /rɪˈzɪl.i.ənt/ – able to quickly return to a previous good condition
- Multi-faceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
- Interventions (noun) – /ˌɪn.təˈven.ʃənz/ – actions taken to improve a situation or prevent it from getting worse
- Work-life balance (noun) – /ˌwɜːk.laɪfˈbæl.əns/ – the division of one’s time and focus between working and family or leisure activities
In conclusion, addressing mental health issues is a crucial topic that requires attention from both societies and governments. The sample essays provided demonstrate different approaches and language use for various band scores. To practice further, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones such as:
- The role of technology in mental health treatment
- The impact of mental health on productivity in the workplace
- The importance of mental health education for children and teenagers
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare for potential mental health-related questions in the actual exam.
