Mental health has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. Based on analysis of past papers and current global trends, this theme is likely to continue featuring prominently. The questions often focus on causes, impacts, and potential solutions regarding mental health issues in modern society.
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that the main factors affecting mental health today are related to work and study pressure. Others think that relationship and family problems have a bigger impact on psychological wellbeing. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine two contrasting perspectives on mental health factors
- Provide supporting arguments for both views
- Present and justify their personal stance
- Suggest relevant examples and evidence
Various factors affecting mental health in modern society
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Modern society’s increasing focus on mental health has sparked debate about its primary influencing factors. While some attribute psychological issues mainly to professional and academic stress, others emphasize the role of personal relationships and family dynamics. In my view, both elements significantly impact mental wellbeing, though work-related pressure tends to be more influential in today’s fast-paced world.
Those who prioritize work and study pressure as key mental health factors present compelling arguments. The intensifying competition in professional environments and educational institutions creates unprecedented stress levels. For instance, many Asian students face immense pressure to excel academically, often studying 12-14 hours daily, which frequently leads to anxiety and depression. Similarly, corporate employees increasingly report burnout due to demanding performance targets and constant connectivity expectations.
Conversely, advocates of relationship-based factors highlight how family conflicts and social isolation can profoundly affect mental health. Broken relationships, divorce, and family dysfunction can trigger severe emotional distress and long-term psychological trauma. For example, children from unstable homes often develop anxiety disorders and trust issues that persist into adulthood. Moreover, the weakening of traditional family structures and community bonds in modern society has left many people without crucial emotional support systems.
In my assessment, while both factors are significant, work and study-related pressure poses a more pervasive threat to mental health in contemporary society. This is primarily because professional and academic stress affects people across all age groups and social classes, often acting as a catalyst for relationship problems. Furthermore, the increasing digitalization of work and education has blurred the boundaries between professional and personal life, intensifying the impact of work-related stress on mental wellbeing.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Today, people often discuss what causes mental health problems. Some think work and study stress are the main problems, while others believe family and relationship issues are more important. I think both factors affect mental health, but work and study pressure is a bigger problem.
Work and study pressure can cause serious mental health issues. Many people work long hours and have difficult targets to meet. For example, in my country, many office workers stay at work until late at night and feel very stressed about their jobs. Students also face a lot of pressure because they need good grades to get into good universities and find good jobs. This pressure can make people feel anxious and depressed.
Family and relationship problems also affect mental health. When people have problems with their family or partner, they often feel sad and worried. Divorce can make people feel very depressed, and children from broken families might have emotional problems. Also, some people feel lonely because they don’t have close relationships with family or friends.
I believe work and study pressure is the bigger problem because it affects more people. Almost everyone has to work or study, so this kind of stress is very common. Also, when people are stressed about work, they might not have time for family and friends, which can cause relationship problems too.
Key Vocabulary
- unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – never having happened or existed before
- pervasive (adj) /pəˈveɪ.sɪv/ – present or noticeable in every part of something
- catalyst (n) /ˈkæt.əl.ɪst/ – something that causes an important change or event
- digitalization (n) /ˌdɪdʒ.ɪ.təl.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ – the process of changing information into digital form
- dysfunction (n) /dɪsˈfʌŋk.ʃən/ – the condition of not operating normally or properly
Conclusion
Mental health topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 require careful consideration of multiple perspectives and clear argumentation. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- Technology’s impact on mental health
- Government’s role in mental healthcare
- Social media and psychological wellbeing
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback and discussion.
