Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Urbanization’s Impact on Mental Health

Urbanization and its effects on mental health have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests:

Some people believe that living in big cities can have a negative impact on people’s mental health. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to discuss the relationship between urban living and mental well-being. It’s crucial to:

1. Clearly state your position (agree/disagree)
2. Provide well-developed reasons and examples
3. Consider potential counterarguments
4. Maintain a balanced approach throughout the essay

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Living in large metropolitan areas has become increasingly common in our rapidly urbanizing world. While cities offer numerous opportunities, I strongly agree that urban life can negatively impact mental health due to several factors.

Firstly, the fast-paced nature of city life often leads to chronic stress and anxiety. The constant rush to meet deadlines, navigate through congested traffic, and cope with the high cost of living can take a significant toll on one’s mental well-being. For instance, a study conducted in Tokyo, one of the world’s largest cities, found that over 30% of office workers reported symptoms of burnout and depression directly linked to their urban lifestyle.

Secondly, the lack of green spaces and connection with nature in many cities can contribute to poor mental health. Numerous studies have shown that exposure to natural environments has a positive effect on mental well-being, reducing stress and improving mood. However, in concrete jungles like New York or Mumbai, access to parks and green areas is often limited, depriving residents of these crucial mental health benefits.

Moreover, the anonymity and social isolation often experienced in big cities can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. Despite being surrounded by millions of people, many urban dwellers struggle to form meaningful connections, which are essential for mental health. A survey in London revealed that 28% of residents felt lonely “often” or “all the time,” highlighting the paradoxical isolation in crowded urban environments.

However, it’s important to note that cities also offer potential mental health benefits, such as better access to healthcare services and diverse cultural experiences. Additionally, some individuals thrive on the energy and opportunities that urban environments provide.

In conclusion, while city life has its advantages, the overwhelming evidence suggests that it can indeed have a detrimental effect on mental health. To mitigate these negative impacts, urban planners and policymakers should prioritize creating more green spaces, fostering community connections, and implementing stress-reduction strategies in urban design.

(Word count: 309)

Illustration of urbanization's impact on mental health

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, cohesion, and development of ideas, warranting a high band score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with well-developed arguments and relevant examples.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphing is appropriate, and cohesive devices are used effectively (e.g., “Firstly,” “Secondly,” “Moreover”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control (e.g., “chronic stress,” “congested traffic,” “concrete jungles”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It demonstrates a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively throughout.

5. Critical Thinking: The essay shows depth of critical thinking by considering counterarguments and providing a balanced conclusion.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

I agree that living in big cities can have negative effects on people’s mental health. There are several reasons for this.

First, cities are often very crowded and noisy. This can make people feel stressed and anxious. For example, in busy cities like New York or Tokyo, people are always surrounded by others and there is constant noise from traffic and construction. This can make it hard to relax and feel calm.

Another problem is that city life can be very expensive. High costs for housing, food, and transportation can cause financial stress. This worry about money can lead to depression and other mental health issues.

Also, many people in big cities work long hours and have long commutes. This leaves little time for relaxation, exercise, or spending time with family and friends. These activities are important for good mental health.

However, cities also have some advantages for mental health. There are usually more job opportunities and better healthcare facilities in urban areas. Cities also offer many entertainment options which can help people relax and enjoy life.

In conclusion, while there are some benefits to city living, I believe the negative impacts on mental health outweigh the positives. City planners and governments should work to make urban areas more livable and less stressful for residents.

(Word count: 218)

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good control of language and addresses the task, but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band essay:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task and presents a clear position, but the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but cohesive devices are less skillfully used compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the range and sophistication of higher band scores.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control.

5. Critical Thinking: The essay shows some critical thinking by considering both negative and positive aspects, but the analysis is less in-depth compared to the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary

1. Urbanization (noun) – /ˌɜːrbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making an area more urban
2. Metropolitan (adjective) – /ˌmetrəˈpɒlɪtən/ – relating to a large city
3. Chronic stress (noun phrase) – /ˈkrɒnɪk stres/ – long-term, ongoing stress
4. Burnout (noun) – /ˈbɜːrnaʊt/ – physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress
5. Concrete jungle (noun phrase) – /ˈkɒŋkriːt ˈdʒʌŋɡəl/ – an urban area with many large buildings and few natural features
6. Social isolation (noun phrase) – /ˈsəʊʃəl ˌaɪsəˈleɪʃən/ – lack of contact with other people
7. Urban planning (noun phrase) – /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – the process of designing and organizing urban areas

The impact of noise pollution on mental health is another significant factor to consider when discussing urbanization’s effects on well-being. As cities grow, so does the level of noise, which can lead to increased stress and sleep disturbances.

Urban green space and mental health

Conclusion

The impact of urbanization on mental health is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions, such as:

1. How can cities be designed to promote better mental health for residents?
2. Do you think the benefits of living in a big city outweigh the drawbacks?
3. What role should governments play in addressing mental health issues in urban areas?

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Should governments provide free mental health services is another related topic you might want to explore to broaden your understanding of mental health issues in urban contexts.

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.