IELTS Writing Task 2: The Importance of Mental Health Resources in Workplaces – Sample Essays and Analysis

Mental health in the workplace has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, reflecting a growing awareness of its impact on employee well-being and productivity. This subject has also found its way into IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, making it a crucial area for test-takers to explore. Based on recent trends and the relevance of this topic, it’s highly likely that questions related to mental health resources in workplaces will continue to appear in future IELTS exams.

Let’s examine a potential IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this subject:

Some people believe that employers should provide mental health resources and support for their employees. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on whether employers should be responsible for providing mental health resources to their employees. To effectively answer this:

1. Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
2. Provide reasons and examples to support your viewpoint
3. Consider potential counterarguments
4. Conclude by restating your position

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s fast-paced and often stressful work environment, the provision of mental health resources by employers has become a topic of significant debate. I strongly agree that companies should offer such support to their workforce, as it benefits both the employees and the organization itself.

Firstly, providing mental health resources demonstrates an employer’s commitment to their staff’s overall well-being. This can include access to counseling services, stress management workshops, or even mindfulness programs. By offering these resources, companies show that they value their employees as whole individuals, not just as productive units. This approach can significantly boost morale and job satisfaction, leading to increased loyalty and reduced turnover rates.

Moreover, investing in mental health support can have tangible benefits for the company’s bottom line. Employees who are mentally healthy are more likely to be productive, creative, and engaged in their work. They are also less likely to take sick days or experience burnout, which can be costly for businesses. For instance, a study by the World Health Organization found that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy US$ 1 trillion each year in lost productivity.

Mental health resources in workplace

Critics might argue that mental health is a personal issue and should be addressed outside of work. However, given that most adults spend a significant portion of their waking hours at work, the workplace inevitably impacts mental health. Employers who recognize this and take proactive steps to support their staff’s mental well-being are likely to create a more positive and productive work environment.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that employers should provide mental health resources for their employees. This approach not only benefits individual workers but also contributes to a more productive, stable, and successful business. As the understanding of mental health’s importance grows, companies that prioritize this aspect of employee welfare are likely to gain a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent.

(Word count: 329)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

I agree that employers should provide mental health resources for their employees. This is important for both the workers and the companies.

One reason why employers should offer mental health support is that it helps employees feel valued. When a company provides things like counseling or stress management classes, it shows they care about their workers’ well-being. This can make employees happier and more loyal to the company.

Another benefit is that mentally healthy workers are usually better at their jobs. If employees are stressed or dealing with mental health problems, they might not work as well. But if they have access to help, they can be more productive. This is good for the company because it means more work gets done.

Some people might say that mental health is a personal issue and not the company’s responsibility. However, work takes up a lot of time in people’s lives and can affect their mental health. So, it makes sense for employers to help with this.

Also, providing mental health resources can save companies money in the long run. If employees are healthier mentally, they might take fewer sick days and stay with the company longer. This means the company doesn’t have to spend as much on hiring and training new people.

In conclusion, I believe that employers should provide mental health resources for their employees. It’s good for both the workers and the company. As more people understand how important mental health is, companies that offer this kind of support will probably do better.

(Word count: 244)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced approach to the topic.

2. Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Arguments: Both essays present clear arguments, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and considers counterarguments.

4. Coherence: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates better coherence with smoother transitions between ideas and paragraphs.

5. Conclusion: Both essays restate the main point, but the Band 8-9 essay offers a more thoughtful conclusion that ties back to the broader context.

Vocabulary to Remember

1. Mental health resources (noun phrase) – /ˈmentl helθ rɪˈsɔːsɪz/ – Services and support systems aimed at promoting psychological well-being.

2. Well-being (noun) – /wel ˈbiːɪŋ/ – The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.

3. Burnout (noun) – /ˈbɜːnaʊt/ – Physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress.

4. Proactive (adjective) – /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – Creating or controlling a situation rather than just responding to it after it has happened.

5. Mindfulness (noun) – /ˈmaɪndfʊlnəs/ – The quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.

6. Productivity (noun) – /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ – The effectiveness of productive effort, especially in industry, as measured in terms of the rate of output per unit of input.

7. Turnover rate (noun phrase) – /ˈtɜːnəʊvə reɪt/ – The rate at which employees leave a workforce and are replaced.

In conclusion, the topic of mental health resources in workplaces is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for such questions, practice writing essays on related themes like work-life balance, employer responsibilities, or the impact of work on personal well-being. Remember to structure your essay clearly, use appropriate vocabulary, and provide well-reasoned arguments supported by examples.

We encourage you to practice writing your own 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 prepare for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your preparation!