Public health campaigns play a crucial role in promoting mental health awareness and well-being. This topic has been increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, reflecting its growing importance in society. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see more questions related to mental health promotion in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question and learn how to craft high-scoring essays on this subject.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that public health campaigns focusing on the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy food are an effective way to raise awareness about health issues. Others believe that these campaigns are not effective and that governments should take other measures to promote public health. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks us to consider the effectiveness of public health campaigns in raising awareness about health issues, specifically mentioning alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy food. It requires us to:
- Discuss the view that these campaigns are effective
- Discuss the opposing view that they are not effective and that other measures should be taken
- Provide our own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question – one aiming for a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Public health campaigns have long been a staple of government efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and raise awareness about various health issues. While some argue that these campaigns, particularly those focusing on the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy food, are highly effective, others contend that they fall short and that alternative measures should be implemented. In my opinion, while public health campaigns can be impactful, they should be part of a more comprehensive approach to health promotion.
Proponents of public health campaigns argue that they are an effective means of educating the public about health risks. These campaigns often use striking visuals and emotional appeals to convey their messages, which can leave a lasting impression on viewers. For instance, graphic images on cigarette packets have been shown to deter some individuals from smoking. Moreover, these campaigns can reach a wide audience through various media channels, potentially influencing societal attitudes towards harmful substances and unhealthy behaviors over time.
On the other hand, critics argue that public health campaigns alone are insufficient to effect significant change. They contend that many people are already aware of the risks associated with alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy food, yet continue to engage in these behaviors due to various factors such as addiction, stress, or cultural norms. These skeptics believe that governments should focus on more direct interventions, such as implementing stricter regulations on the sale and marketing of harmful products, increasing taxes on unhealthy items, or improving access to healthcare and support services.
In my view, while public health campaigns can be valuable tools for raising awareness, they are most effective when integrated into a multifaceted approach to health promotion. Campaigns should be complemented by policy changes, community-based interventions, and improved healthcare services. For example, an anti-smoking campaign could be paired with increased cigarette taxes, smoking cessation programs, and bans on smoking in public places. This comprehensive strategy addresses not only awareness but also the environmental and social factors that influence health behaviors.
In conclusion, public health campaigns have the potential to be effective in raising awareness about health issues, but their impact can be limited when used in isolation. A more holistic approach that combines educational campaigns with tangible policy measures and support systems is likely to yield the most significant improvements in public health outcomes.
(Word count: 374)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Public health campaigns about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and unhealthy food are common in many countries. Some people think these campaigns are good for raising awareness about health problems, while others believe they don’t work well and governments should do other things to help public health. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support public health campaigns say they are effective because they give important information to many people. These campaigns often use strong images and messages that can make people think about their health choices. For example, putting pictures of sick lungs on cigarette packs can make some smokers want to quit. Also, these campaigns can reach a lot of people through TV, internet, and posters in public places.
However, other people argue that these campaigns are not very effective. They say that most people already know that alcohol, tobacco, and junk food are bad for health, but they still use them because of habits or other reasons. These critics think governments should do more practical things like making laws to control the sale of unhealthy products or making them more expensive through taxes. They also suggest improving healthcare services to help people who want to be healthier.
< 
public health campaign poster>
In my opinion, I think public health campaigns can be helpful, but they are not enough on their own. I believe a mix of different approaches would work better. Governments could use campaigns to educate people, but also make laws to limit unhealthy products and provide better healthcare services. For instance, they could have anti-smoking ads, but also increase cigarette prices and offer free programs to help people quit smoking.
To conclude, while public health campaigns can raise awareness, they should be part of a bigger plan to improve public health. Combining education, laws, and support services is likely to be more effective in helping people make healthier choices.
(Word count: 309)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced thesis statement.
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.
Argument Development: The higher-band essay provides more specific examples and deeper analysis, while the lower-band essay offers more general statements but still covers the main points.
Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases, but the Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more varied and sophisticated use of these devices.
Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more balanced and thoughtful discussion.
Vocabulary to Remember
Public health campaign (noun): organized efforts to promote health awareness
Pronunciation: /ˈpʌblɪk helθ kæmˈpeɪn/Intervention (noun): action taken to improve a situation
Pronunciation: /ˌɪntərˈvenʃən/Multifaceted (adjective): having many different aspects or features
Pronunciation: /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/Cessation (noun): the act of stopping something
Pronunciation: /seˈseɪʃən/Holistic (adjective): characterized by the treatment of the whole person, taking into account mental and social factors
Pronunciation: /həʊˈlɪstɪk/Deter (verb): discourage someone from doing something
Pronunciation: /dɪˈtɜː(r)/Implement (verb): put into effect or action
Pronunciation: /ˈɪmplɪment/Comprehensive (adjective): including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
Pronunciation: /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/
These words can help you express your ideas more precisely and demonstrate a wider vocabulary range in your IELTS Writing Task 2 essays.
Conclusion
The role of public health campaigns in mental health promotion is a relevant and important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding how to approach this subject, you can craft well-structured and informative essays that address various aspects of public health initiatives.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of schools in promoting mental health awareness
- The impact of social media on public mental health campaigns
- The effectiveness of community-based mental health programs
Remember to focus on clear structure, balanced arguments, and appropriate use of vocabulary and grammar. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
For more IELTS writing tips and sample essays, check out our guides on how to promote mental wellness in communities and the impact of social media on public health.