IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Support Mental Health in Families Affected by Addiction – Sample Essays and Analysis

The topic of supporting mental health in families affected by addiction is an increasingly relevant issue in modern society. While it hasn’t been a frequent subject in past IELTS exams, its growing importance suggests it may appear more often in future tests. Let’s examine a potential IELTS Writing Task 2 question related to this theme and analyze how to approach it effectively.

Some people believe that families dealing with addiction should receive specialized mental health support from the government. Others argue that this is a personal matter and should be handled privately. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question presents a balanced argument task. It requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that government should provide specialized mental health support
2. Discuss the opposing view that addiction is a personal matter
3. Present your own opinion on the issue

Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a clear, well-supported argument.

Sample Essay (Band 8-9)

The issue of providing mental health support to families affected by addiction is a complex and contentious one. While some argue for government intervention, others believe it should remain a private matter. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.

Those in favor of government support argue that addiction has far-reaching societal impacts that justify public intervention. Addiction often leads to family breakdown, job loss, and increased crime rates, all of which burden society as a whole. By providing specialized mental health support, the government could potentially mitigate these wider societal costs. Moreover, many families lack the financial resources or knowledge to access appropriate mental health services independently. Government intervention could ensure that all affected families, regardless of their socioeconomic status, receive the necessary support to cope with the challenges of addiction.

On the other hand, those who argue against government involvement believe that addiction and its consequences are personal issues that should be handled privately. They contend that government intervention may stigmatize families and deter them from seeking help. There are also concerns about privacy and the potential for government overreach into personal matters. Additionally, some argue that relying on government support may discourage personal responsibility and family-based solutions, which are often crucial in addressing addiction issues.

In my opinion, while respecting personal privacy is important, the severity and widespread impact of addiction justify some level of government support. A balanced approach that offers voluntary, easily accessible mental health services without mandating their use could be an effective compromise. This would provide crucial support to families in need without infringing on personal freedoms. Furthermore, government-backed education programs about addiction and mental health could help reduce stigma and encourage more families to seek help when needed.

In conclusion, while the debate over government involvement in supporting families affected by addiction is complex, I believe that carefully implemented government support can play a vital role in addressing this issue. By offering voluntary services and education, we can support affected families while respecting their autonomy and privacy.

(Word count: 329)

Mental health support for families

Sample Essay (Band 6-7)

Addiction is a big problem that affects many families. Some people think the government should help these families with their mental health, while others say it’s a private issue. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

People who want government help say that addiction affects everyone, not just the family. When someone has an addiction, it can cause problems at work, in relationships, and even lead to crime. This hurts society, so the government should step in. Also, many families don’t have enough money or knowledge to get help on their own. If the government provides support, all families can get the help they need, no matter how much money they have.

On the other hand, some people think addiction is a personal problem that families should handle privately. They worry that if the government gets involved, it might make families feel ashamed or unwilling to ask for help. There are also concerns about privacy and the government knowing too much about people’s personal lives. Some people also think that if the government helps too much, families might not try to solve their own problems.

In my opinion, I think the government should provide some help, but not force families to use it. They could offer free mental health services and education about addiction, but let families choose if they want to use them. This way, families who need help can get it, but those who want to handle things privately can do so. I also think the government should teach people about addiction to help reduce shame and encourage more families to seek help when they need it.

In conclusion, while there are good arguments on both sides, I believe that some government support for families dealing with addiction is necessary. By offering voluntary help and education, we can support families while still respecting their privacy and choices.

(Word count: 309)

Key Writing Tips

1. Addressing the question: Both essays clearly discuss the two viewpoints and provide a personal opinion, fulfilling all parts of the task.

2. Structure: The essays follow a clear four-paragraph structure: introduction, two body paragraphs (one for each viewpoint), and a conclusion with the writer’s opinion.

3. Cohesion and coherence: Use of linking words and phrases (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “In conclusion”) to connect ideas smoothly.

4. Vocabulary and grammar:

   • Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
   • Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity and accuracy.

5. Development of ideas: Both essays provide examples and explanations to support their points, but the Band 8-9 essay offers more detailed and nuanced arguments.

Important Vocabulary

1. Addiction (noun) /əˈdɪk.ʃən/ – a strong need to regularly have or do something
2. Stigmatize (verb) /ˈstɪɡ.mə.taɪz/ – to treat someone or something unfairly by disapproving of them
3. Intervention (noun) /ˌɪn.təˈven.ʃən/ – the action of becoming involved in a difficult situation to improve it or prevent it from getting worse
4. Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪt.ɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/ – the act of reducing how harmful, unpleasant, or bad something is
5. Contentious (adjective) /kənˈten.ʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
6. Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒn.ə.mi/ – the right of an organization, country, or region to be independent and govern itself
7. Overreach (noun) /ˌəʊ.vəˈriːtʃ/ – the act of trying to do more than you are able to do or are allowed to do

In conclusion, addressing the topic of supporting mental health in families affected by addiction requires a balanced approach, considering both the need for support and the importance of personal privacy. As you practice writing essays on this and similar topics, remember to clearly address all parts of the question, use a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures, and provide well-developed arguments.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

• The role of communities in supporting families affected by addiction
• The impact of addiction on children’s mental health and education
• The effectiveness of different approaches to addiction treatment

We encourage you to write your own essay based on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 2.