Mental health among young people has become an increasingly prominent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme has appeared in various forms, particularly focusing on causes and solutions. Here are some recent authentic questions that have appeared in actual IELTS tests.
Analysis of Task 2 Question
More and more young people are suffering from mental health issues like anxiety and depression. What are the main causes of this problem? What measures can be taken to address this issue?
This question requires candidates to:
- Identify major causes of mental health problems among youth
- Propose relevant solutions
- Maintain a balanced discussion of both aspects
Rising rates of anxiety and depression among young people worldwide
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in mental health issues among young people. This essay will examine the primary factors contributing to this problem and suggest potential remedial measures.
The deteriorating mental wellbeing of youth can be attributed to several key factors. First and foremost, the intense academic pressure and competitive educational environment that many young people face today can trigger anxiety and depression. Students often feel overwhelmed by excessive homework, standardized tests, and expectations to excel in both curricular and extracurricular activities. Additionally, social media and digital technology play a significant role in exacerbating mental health issues. The constant exposure to carefully curated online personas can lead to unhealthy comparisons and feelings of inadequacy, while cyberbullying and online harassment can have devastating psychological effects.
To address these challenges, both preventive and therapeutic approaches are necessary. Educational institutions should implement comprehensive mental health programs that include regular counseling services and stress management workshops. Schools could also consider reducing academic pressure by adopting more balanced assessment methods and promoting collaborative rather than competitive learning environments. Furthermore, parents and educators should focus on digital literacy education, teaching young people how to use social media responsibly and maintain healthy online-offline balance. Government initiatives could include funding for mental health research and making professional psychological support more accessible and affordable for young people.
In conclusion, while the causes of youth mental health issues are complex and multifaceted, there are concrete steps that can be taken to mitigate their impact. It requires a coordinated effort from educational institutions, families, and policymakers to create a more supportive environment for young people’s mental wellbeing.
Comprehensive mental health support systems for young people
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many young people have mental health problems like anxiety and depression. There are several reasons for this problem and some ways to solve it.
The main reason why young people have mental problems is because of school stress. They have to study very hard and get good grades to go to good universities. Also, many young people spend too much time on social media, which makes them feel bad about themselves because they compare their lives with others. Some teenagers also have problems with their families because their parents work too much and don’t have time to talk with them.
To solve these problems, schools should help students deal with stress better. They can have counselors who students can talk to when they feel sad or worried. Parents should also spend more time with their children and listen to their problems. The government should make mental health treatment cheaper so more young people can get help when they need it.
In conclusion, young people today face many challenges that affect their mental health. Everyone needs to work together to help solve this problem.
Key Vocabulary
- deteriorating (adj) /dɪˈtɪriəreɪtɪŋ/ – becoming progressively worse
- exacerbating (v) /ɪɡˈzæsərbeɪtɪŋ/ – making a problem worse
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete, including all aspects
- multifaceted (adj) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects
- therapeutic (adj) /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ – relating to healing or treatment
- cyberbullying (n) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – online harassment
- remedial (adj) /rɪˈmiːdiəl/ – intended to correct or improve
- initiative (n) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ – a new plan or process to achieve something
Practice Suggestions
For additional practice, try writing essays on these related topics:
- The impact of technology on youth mental health
- The role of schools in supporting student mental wellbeing
- Work-related stress among young professionals
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
