Mental health support in the workplace has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, questions about workplace mental health have appeared frequently, reflecting growing global awareness of employee wellbeing. This trend suggests similar questions will likely continue appearing in future tests.
Work-life balance: achieving harmony is crucial for maintaining good mental health at work. Let’s examine a common IELTS Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that employers should provide mental health support for their employees, while others think it is not employers’ responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires:
- Discussion of both perspectives
- Clear personal opinion
- Examples and support for arguments
- Balanced evaluation
Mental health support programs in modern workplace environment
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
Many organizations are debating whether companies should take responsibility for their workers’ mental wellbeing. While some argue against this practice, I firmly believe that employers should provide comprehensive mental health support.
Those opposing workplace mental health programs often cite cost concerns and privacy issues. They argue that mental health is a personal matter that should be handled independently or through healthcare systems. Additionally, some employees might feel uncomfortable discussing psychological issues in professional settings, potentially creating workplace tensions.
However, I strongly support employer-provided mental health services for several compelling reasons. Firstly, work-related stress directly impacts productivity and company performance. Remote working: advantages and disadvantages? has shown that proper mental health support can significantly reduce burnout and improve work quality. Secondly, companies have a moral obligation to protect their workers’ wellbeing, as workplace pressures often contribute to mental health challenges.
Furthermore, should workplace wellness programs be required studies demonstrate that organizations implementing mental health support programs see reduced absenteeism and increased employee retention. This makes such initiatives financially beneficial in the long term, despite initial implementation costs.
In conclusion, while some concerns exist, the benefits of employer-provided mental health support far outweigh the drawbacks, making it an essential component of modern workplace practices.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Mental health support at work is a topic that many people talk about today. Some people think companies should help workers with mental health, but others disagree with this idea.
People who don’t support this think it costs too much money. They say companies should focus on business only and workers should take care of their own mental health. Also, some workers don’t want to talk about personal problems at work because they feel shy.
But I think companies should help with mental health. When workers are stressed, they cannot work well. Mental health: causes and measures shows that happy workers do better jobs. Also, many mental health problems come from work stress, so companies should help fix these problems.
Companies that help workers with mental health usually have better results. Workers stay longer in their jobs and don’t take many sick days. This helps the company make more money.
In conclusion, I believe companies should provide mental health support because it helps both workers and the business.
Score Analysis
Band 8.0 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization and cohesion
- Well-developed arguments
- Effective use of examples
- Natural paragraph transitions
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Simple but clear language
- Basic organization
- Limited range of vocabulary
- Some repetition
- Less sophisticated arguments
Key Vocabulary
- mental wellbeing (n) /ˈmentəl welˈbiːɪŋ/ – psychological health
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete, thorough
- absenteeism (n) /ˌæbsənˈtiːɪzəm/ – frequent absence from work
- initiative (n) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ – new plan or process
- retention (n) /rɪˈtenʃən/ – the ability to keep employees
In conclusion, this topic remains highly relevant for IELTS candidates. Practice writing essays about workplace mental health policies, wellness programs, and employee support systems. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
