In recent years, the importance of public health policies in mental health care has become an increasingly prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject not only reflects current global health concerns but also tests candidates’ ability to articulate complex ideas about societal well-being. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a typical question on this topic and learn how to craft a high-scoring response.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for protecting the mental health of their citizens. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks for your opinion on the role of government in mental health care. It’s essential to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide reasons and examples to support your view
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Structure your essay logically
Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, targeting different band scores.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Mental health has become a paramount concern in modern society, and the debate over government responsibility in this area is both timely and crucial. While some argue that mental health should be a private matter, I firmly believe that governments should play a significant role in protecting and promoting the mental well-being of their citizens.
Firstly, governments have the resources and reach to implement comprehensive mental health policies that can benefit entire populations. By integrating mental health services into public healthcare systems, authorities can ensure wider accessibility and reduce the stigma often associated with seeking help. For instance, the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has made significant strides in providing free mental health support, demonstrating how government involvement can lead to improved mental health outcomes on a national scale.
Moreover, governments are uniquely positioned to address the social determinants of mental health. Through policy-making and legislation, they can tackle issues like unemployment, housing insecurity, and discrimination – all of which significantly impact mental well-being. The Finnish government’s approach to homelessness, which includes providing housing and support services, has not only reduced homelessness but also improved mental health outcomes among vulnerable populations.
mental-health-support-services|Mental Health Support Services|Image of a diverse group of people accessing mental health support services like therapy, support groups, and community outreach programs. The image should evoke feelings of hope, support, and accessibility.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that government involvement should not negate personal responsibility or the role of private healthcare providers. A balanced approach where government policies complement individual efforts and private sector innovations would be most effective. The Australian government’s partnership with beyondblue, a non-profit organization, exemplifies how public-private collaboration can enhance mental health initiatives.
In conclusion, while individuals and private entities have important roles to play, government responsibility in mental health care is crucial for creating a comprehensive, accessible, and effective mental health system. By leveraging their unique position and resources, governments can significantly contribute to the mental well-being of their citizens, ultimately fostering healthier and more productive societies.
(Word count: 295)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
In today’s world, mental health is becoming more important, and people are discussing who should be responsible for it. Some think the government should take care of citizens’ mental health. I agree with this idea to a large extent.
There are several reasons why I believe governments should be responsible for mental health. Firstly, governments have more resources than individuals or small organizations. They can create big programs to help many people at once. For example, they can start mental health awareness campaigns in schools and workplaces. Secondly, governments can make laws that protect people with mental health problems from discrimination. This can help people feel safer about seeking help.
However, it’s also important to remember that individuals have some responsibility too. People should try to take care of their own mental health by exercising, eating well, and seeking help when they need it. The government can’t control everything about a person’s life.
Another good thing about government involvement is that it can make mental health care more affordable. Many people don’t get help because it’s too expensive. If the government provides free or low-cost mental health services, more people can benefit.
In conclusion, I strongly agree that governments should be responsible for protecting citizens’ mental health. They have the power and resources to make big changes. However, this doesn’t mean individuals shouldn’t also take care of themselves. The best approach is probably a combination of government support and personal responsibility.
(Word count: 249)
Key Writing Tips
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced conclusion.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases like “paramount concern,” “comprehensive mental health policies,” and “social determinants of mental health.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates ideas.
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Examples: The higher band essay provides specific, real-world examples (UK’s NHS, Finnish homelessness policy, Australian beyondblue partnership). The lower band essay uses more general examples.
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Coherence: Both essays maintain a clear position throughout, but the Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more complex reasoning and acknowledges counterarguments.
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Grammar: The Band 8-9 essay uses a wider range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and passive voice. The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler structures but generally maintains grammatical accuracy.
Essential Vocabulary
- Mental well-being (noun) /ˈmen.təl wel-ˈbiː.ɪŋ/ – The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy mentally
- Stigma (noun) /ˈstɪɡ.mə/ – A strong feeling of disapproval that most people in a society have about something
- Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv/ – Complete and including everything that is necessary
- Accessibility (noun) /əkˌses.əˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – The quality of being able to be reached or easily obtained
- Legislation (noun) /ˌledʒ.ɪˈsleɪ.ʃən/ – A law or set of laws suggested by a government and made official by a parliament
- Vulnerable (adjective) /ˈvʌl.nər.ə.bəl/ – Able to be easily physically, emotionally, or mentally hurt, influenced, or attacked
- Initiative (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃ.ə.tɪv/ – A new plan or process to achieve something or solve a problem
- Determinants (noun) /dɪˈtɜː.mɪ.nənts/ – Factors which decisively affect the nature or outcome of something
Conclusion
The importance of public health policies in mental health care is a critical topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key elements of a strong essay on this subject – from structure and vocabulary to examples and analysis – you can improve your writing skills and achieve a higher band score. Remember to practice regularly, perhaps by writing an essay on the sample question provided and sharing it in the comments section for feedback. This active approach to learning can significantly enhance your IELTS preparation.
For further practice, consider exploring related topics such as the role of public policy in reducing social inequality or how economic downturns affect mental health services. These topics can help broaden your understanding of public health policies and their impacts on society, providing valuable insights for future IELTS essays.