Economic downturns and their impact on mental wellness have become increasingly relevant topics in recent years, especially in light of global financial crises and the COVID-19 pandemic. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, making it an important area for test-takers to understand and prepare for.

Based on an analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we can expect this topic to continue appearing in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that economic progress is the only way to measure a country’s success, while others believe that other factors are more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question touches on the broader theme of economic progress and its relationship to a country’s overall well-being, which includes mental health. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that economic progress is the sole measure of a country’s success
2. Explore other factors that could be considered important in measuring success
3. Provide a personal opinion on the matter

Sample Essay (Band 8-9)

Economic progress has long been considered a key indicator of a nation’s success. However, there is an ongoing debate about whether it should be the sole measure or if other factors deserve equal consideration. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of economic progress as the primary measure of success argue that a strong economy underpins all other aspects of a country’s development. They contend that financial growth leads to improved infrastructure, better healthcare systems, and enhanced educational opportunities. Moreover, a robust economy can provide citizens with higher standards of living, job security, and the means to pursue personal aspirations. For instance, countries like Singapore and South Korea have transformed their societies through rapid economic development, resulting in significant improvements in various quality-of-life indicators.

On the other hand, many argue that other factors are equally, if not more, important in gauging a nation’s success. These include social welfare, environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and citizens’ overall well-being, including mental health. Advocates of this view point out that economic growth often comes at the cost of increased stress levels, longer working hours, and environmental degradation. They cite examples like Bhutan, which measures its progress through a “Gross National Happiness” index, considering factors such as psychological well-being, community vitality, and ecological diversity alongside economic indicators.

In my opinion, while economic progress is undeniably crucial, it should not be the sole criterion for measuring a country’s success. A truly successful nation should strive for a balance between economic growth and other vital aspects of societal well-being. This includes ensuring mental health support, maintaining a clean environment, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting social equity. Countries like Norway and New Zealand exemplify this balanced approach, consistently ranking high in both economic and quality-of-life indices.

In conclusion, while economic progress plays a significant role in a country’s development, it should be considered alongside other crucial factors to provide a comprehensive measure of success. Policymakers should aim for a holistic approach that promotes economic growth without compromising the overall well-being of their citizens and the environment.

(Word count: 329)

Economic progress and mental wellness balance

Sample Essay (Band 6-7)

Many people think that economic progress is the most important way to measure how successful a country is. However, others believe there are more important things to consider. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, economic progress is very important for a country’s success. When a country has a strong economy, it can provide better jobs, healthcare, and education for its people. For example, countries like the United States and Japan are considered successful because they have strong economies that allow their citizens to have a high standard of living. Economic growth also helps countries to build better infrastructure and technology, which can improve people’s lives.

On the other hand, there are other factors that are also important for measuring a country’s success. These include things like happiness, health, and the environment. Some people argue that even if a country is rich, it’s not really successful if its people are unhappy or if the environment is polluted. For instance, some smaller countries might not be as wealthy, but their citizens might be happier and healthier. Bhutan is a good example of this, as they focus on “Gross National Happiness” instead of just economic measures.

In my opinion, I think both economic progress and other factors are important for measuring a country’s success. While a strong economy is necessary for providing basic needs and opportunities, it shouldn’t come at the cost of people’s well-being or the environment. I believe a truly successful country should have a good balance between economic growth and other aspects of life quality.

To conclude, although economic progress is crucial, it shouldn’t be the only way to measure a country’s success. Other factors like happiness, health, and environmental protection are also very important. The best approach is to consider all these aspects together when evaluating how successful a country is.

(Word count: 309)

Key Points to Consider When Writing

1. For Band 8-9 essays:

   • Use sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
   • Provide specific examples to support your arguments
   • Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the topic
   • Ensure a logical flow of ideas with clear paragraphing

2. For Band 6-7 essays:

   • Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
   • Include some specific examples, but they may be less detailed
   • Show a good understanding of the topic, but with less depth
   • Maintain a clear structure, though transitions may be less smooth

3. Grammar points to focus on:

   • Use of conditional sentences (e.g., “If a country focuses solely on economic growth, it may neglect other important aspects.”)
   • Comparative and superlative forms (e.g., “Economic progress is more tangible than happiness, but not necessarily more important.”)
   • Passive voice to vary sentence structure (e.g., “Mental health is often overlooked when measuring a country’s success.”)

4. Vocabulary considerations:

   • For higher bands, use less common synonyms and phrases (e.g., “underpins,” “gauge,” “vital aspects”)
   • For lower bands, use more common vocabulary but ensure it’s used correctly and appropriately

Essential Vocabulary to Remember

1. Economic progress (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈprəʊɡres/ – advancement in economic growth and development
2. Measure (verb) /ˈmeʒə(r)/ – to ascertain the size, amount, or degree of something
3. Well-being (noun) /wel ˈbiːɪŋ/ – the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy
4. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – the basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society
5. Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain rate or level
6. Quality of life (noun phrase) /ˈkwɒləti əv laɪf/ – the standard of health, comfort, and happiness experienced by an individual or group
7. Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected
8. Gross National Happiness (noun phrase) /ɡrəʊs ˈnæʃnəl ˈhæpinəs/ – an index used by Bhutan to measure the collective happiness and well-being of its population

In conclusion, the topic of economic progress and its relation to mental wellness and overall societal success is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on similar themes, such as:

• The impact of economic growth on work-life balance
• The role of governments in promoting both economic progress and mental health
• The relationship between a country’s wealth and its citizens’ happiness

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the question provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and to engage in productive discussions with fellow IELTS aspirants. This active practice will significantly enhance your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.