The IELTS Reading section is a crucial component of the exam, testing your ability to comprehend complex texts and answer various question types. Today, we’ll focus on a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years: promoting mental health for students. This subject has appeared in several past IELTS exams and, given its growing importance in educational settings, is likely to feature in future tests as well.

Let’s dive into a practice reading passage and questions to help you prepare for this potential IELTS topic while honing your reading skills.

Reading Passage

Nurturing Minds: Promoting Mental Health in Educational Institutions

A. In recent years, the importance of mental health in educational settings has gained significant recognition. As academic pressures mount and social dynamics become increasingly complex, schools and universities are acknowledging their crucial role in supporting students’ psychological well-being. This shift in perspective is not just a passing trend but a necessary evolution in our understanding of holistic education.

B. One of the primary ways institutions are addressing mental health is through awareness campaigns. These initiatives aim to destigmatize mental health issues and encourage open conversations. By normalizing discussions about anxiety, depression, and stress, schools create an environment where students feel comfortable seeking help. Many institutions have implemented “Mental Health Awareness Weeks,” featuring workshops, guest speakers, and informational booths that provide resources and support.

C. Another effective strategy is the integration of mental health education into the curriculum. Some schools have introduced mandatory courses or modules that teach students about emotional intelligence, stress management, and coping mechanisms. This proactive approach equips students with valuable life skills that extend far beyond the classroom. By understanding the fundamentals of mental health, students are better prepared to navigate the challenges they may face both during their academic journey and in their future careers.

D. The role of counseling services in promoting student mental health cannot be overstated. Many educational institutions have expanded their counseling departments, offering a range of services from one-on-one therapy sessions to group support meetings. Some schools have even embraced technology, providing online counseling options to increase accessibility. These services offer a safe space for students to address their concerns and develop strategies for maintaining good mental health.

E. Physical activity has long been recognized for its positive impact on mental well-being. In response, many schools have revamped their physical education programs to emphasize the mental health benefits of exercise. Beyond traditional sports, institutions are introducing activities like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices. These programs not only promote physical fitness but also teach students valuable techniques for managing stress and improving focus.

F. The creation of supportive physical environments is another key aspect of promoting mental health in educational settings. Schools are redesigning spaces to include quiet areas for reflection, collaborative zones for social interaction, and green spaces for connecting with nature. These thoughtful designs acknowledge the impact of physical surroundings on mental state and provide students with diverse options for relaxation and social engagement.

G. Peer support programs have emerged as a powerful tool in promoting mental health. These initiatives train students to recognize signs of distress in their peers and provide initial support. By empowering students to look out for one another, schools create a network of support that extends beyond the reach of faculty and staff. These programs not only help identify students who may need professional assistance but also foster a culture of empathy and community care.

H. The integration of technology in mental health promotion has opened new avenues for support. Many institutions now offer apps that provide resources, self-assessment tools, and direct links to support services. These digital platforms allow students to access help discreetly and at their own pace, breaking down barriers that might prevent them from seeking traditional face-to-face support.

I. As educational institutions continue to evolve their approaches to mental health, the focus is increasingly on creating a culture of well-being. This holistic approach recognizes that mental health is not just the absence of mental illness but a state of overall psychological wellness. By embedding mental health promotion into every aspect of student life, from academic policies to social activities, schools are striving to create environments where every student can thrive mentally, emotionally, and academically.

J. The journey towards comprehensive mental health support in educational settings is ongoing. As research continues to unveil new insights into mental health, and as societal attitudes continue to shift, schools and universities must remain adaptable. The ultimate goal is to create a generation of students who are not only academically proficient but also emotionally resilient and mentally robust, equipped to face the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Mental health education in schools

Questions

Section 1: Multiple Choice

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.

1. According to the passage, mental health awareness campaigns in schools aim to:
   A) Increase academic performance
   B) Reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues
   C) Replace traditional counseling services
   D) Compete with physical education programs

2. The integration of mental health education into the curriculum is described as:
   A) An optional extra-curricular activity
   B) A replacement for physical education
   C) A mandatory component in some schools
   D) A program only for students with diagnosed mental health issues

3. The passage suggests that peer support programs:
   A) Replace professional counseling services
   B) Are ineffective in identifying students in distress
   C) Train students to provide professional-level therapy
   D) Help create a supportive community among students

Section 2: True/False/Not Given

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the Reading Passage?
Write
TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

4. All schools now offer online counseling services to their students.
5. Physical activity programs in schools focus solely on traditional sports.
6. The design of school spaces can impact students’ mental well-being.
7. Technology-based mental health support is preferred by all students over face-to-face counseling.

Section 3: Matching Headings

Match the following headings with the correct paragraphs (A-J) from the passage.

List of Headings:
i. The Impact of Physical Surroundings
ii. Digital Solutions for Mental Health Support
iii. The Evolution of Mental Health Recognition in Education
iv. Empowering Students to Support Each Other
v. Integrating Mental Wellness into Academic Life
vi. The Future of Mental Health in Education
vii. Expanding Professional Support Services
viii. Physical Activity as a Mental Health Tool

8. Paragraph B
9. Paragraph E
10. Paragraph F
11. Paragraph G
12. Paragraph H

Section 4: Summary Completion

Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.

Educational institutions are taking various approaches to promote student mental health. These include organizing (13) __ __ to reduce stigma, introducing mental health education into the (14) __, and expanding counseling services. Schools are also emphasizing the importance of (15) __ __ for mental well-being and creating supportive physical environments. Some institutions have implemented (16) __ __ programs, where students are trained to support their peers. Additionally, (17) __ has been integrated to provide accessible mental health resources. The overall goal is to create a culture of (18) __ that prepares students for future challenges.

Answer Key

1. B
2. C
3. D
4. FALSE
5. FALSE
6. TRUE
7. NOT GIVEN
8. iv
9. viii
10. i
11. iv
12. ii
13. awareness campaigns
14. curriculum
15. physical activity
16. peer support
17. technology
18. well-being

Explanations

1. B is correct. The passage states that awareness campaigns aim to “destigmatize mental health issues and encourage open conversations.”

2. C is correct. The passage mentions that “Some schools have introduced mandatory courses or modules” on mental health education.

3. D is correct. The passage describes peer support programs as creating “a network of support” and fostering “a culture of empathy and community care.”

4. FALSE. The passage states that “Some schools have even embraced technology, providing online counseling options,” not all schools.

5. FALSE. The passage mentions that “Beyond traditional sports, institutions are introducing activities like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices.”

6. TRUE. The passage states, “These thoughtful designs acknowledge the impact of physical surroundings on mental state.”

7. NOT GIVEN. The passage doesn’t compare student preferences for technology-based support versus face-to-face counseling.

8-12. These answers match the main ideas of each paragraph with the provided headings.

13-18. These answers are taken directly from the passage, filling in the summary with key concepts discussed in the text.

Common Mistakes

When tackling a reading passage like this, students often make the following mistakes:

1. Overlooking key words: Pay attention to qualifiers like “some,” “many,” or “all.” These can change the meaning of a statement significantly.

2. Making assumptions: Stick to the information provided in the text. Avoid using outside knowledge or making inferences not supported by the passage.

3. Misinterpreting “Not Given”: Remember, this option means the information is neither confirmed nor denied in the text.

4. Rushing through the passage: Take time to understand the overall structure and main ideas of each paragraph.

5. Ignoring context: When matching headings or completing summaries, consider the entire paragraph or passage, not just individual sentences.

Vocabulary

Here are some key vocabulary items from the passage:

1. Holistic (adjective) – /həˈlɪstɪk/ – considering the whole of something, not just its parts
   Example: The school takes a holistic approach to education, focusing on academic, physical, and mental well-being.

2. Destigmatize (verb) – /diːˈstɪɡməˌtaɪz/ – to remove the negative associations or social disapproval attached to something
   Example: The campaign aims to destigmatize mental health issues among teenagers.

3. Proactive (adjective) – /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – acting in anticipation of future problems, needs, or changes
   Example: The university took a proactive approach by introducing stress management courses.

4. Revamp (verb) – /riːˈvæmp/ – to renovate, revise, or restructure
   Example: The school revamped its counseling services to better serve student needs.

5. Resilient (adjective) – /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
   Example: The goal is to create emotionally resilient students who can cope with life’s challenges.

Grammar Focus

Pay attention to the use of present perfect tense in the passage, which is used to describe actions or states that started in the past and continue to the present or have present relevance:

“In recent years, the importance of mental health in educational settings has gained significant recognition.”

This tense is often used in IELTS Reading passages to describe ongoing trends or recent developments. Practice identifying and using this tense in your own writing and speaking to enhance your overall English proficiency.

Tips for IELTS Reading Success

1. Time management is crucial. Allocate your time wisely across all sections of the reading test.

2. Skim the passage first to get a general idea, then read questions carefully before searching for specific details.

3. Practice active reading techniques, such as underlining key information and making brief notes.

4. Improve your vocabulary regularly, focusing on academic and topic-specific words.

5. Familiarize yourself with all question types through consistent practice with past papers and mock tests.

6. Don’t spend too much time on one question. If you’re unsure, make an educated guess and move on.

7. Always check your answers if time allows, paying special attention to transfer errors when writing your answers on the answer sheet.

By following these strategies and regularly practicing with diverse reading materials, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the IELTS Reading section with confidence. Remember, consistent practice is key to improving your reading skills and achieving your desired IELTS score.

For more insights on mental health and education, you might find these articles helpful:

• The Role of Education in Promoting Mental Wellness
• How to Promote Mental Health Awareness in Schools

Good luck with your IELTS preparation!