Mental health has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, and it’s no surprise that it has found its way into IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. The topic “should governments invest in mental health services” is a highly relevant and frequently occurring theme in IELTS exams. Based on analysis of past IELTS questions and current global trends, it’s likely that this topic will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question related to this theme and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should spend money on measures to save languages with few speakers from dying out completely. Others think this is a waste of financial resources. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting views on government spending for mental health services and then provide your own opinion. Let’s break it down:
- View 1: Governments should invest in mental health services
- View 2: This investment is not a good use of resources
- Your task: Discuss both viewpoints and give your own opinion
Remember to address all parts of the question, provide relevant examples, and structure your essay logically.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Mental health has become a pressing issue in modern society, and the debate over government funding for mental health services has intensified. While some argue that such investments are crucial for public well-being, others contend that these resources could be better allocated elsewhere. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government investment in mental health services argue that it is essential for several reasons. Firstly, mental health problems are increasingly prevalent, affecting millions of people worldwide and imposing a significant burden on individuals, families, and society as a whole. By providing adequate funding for mental health services, governments can help alleviate this burden and improve overall public health. Moreover, investing in mental health can have positive economic implications, as improved mental well-being can lead to increased productivity and reduced healthcare costs in the long run.
On the other hand, critics argue that allocating substantial resources to mental health services may not be the most efficient use of government funds. They contend that there are other pressing issues, such as physical healthcare, education, or infrastructure, which may yield more tangible and immediate benefits. Additionally, skeptics question the effectiveness of mental health interventions, arguing that the outcomes are often difficult to measure and that the field lacks the same level of scientific rigor as other medical disciplines.
In my opinion, government investment in mental health services is not only justified but essential in today’s society. The growing prevalence of mental health issues, exacerbated by factors such as social media, economic instability, and global crises, necessitates a robust and well-funded mental health system. Furthermore, the interconnected nature of mental and physical health means that neglecting mental health can lead to a cascade of other health problems, ultimately increasing the burden on the healthcare system.
While it is true that other areas of public spending are also important, I believe that mental health should be given equal priority. A holistic approach to public health and well-being must include mental health as a cornerstone. Governments can address concerns about effectiveness by investing in research to develop evidence-based interventions and by implementing rigorous evaluation systems to measure outcomes.
In conclusion, while there are valid arguments on both sides of this debate, the benefits of government investment in mental health services far outweigh the potential drawbacks. By prioritizing mental health, governments can contribute to the overall well-being of their citizens, foster a more productive society, and potentially reduce long-term healthcare costs. It is time for mental health to be recognized as an essential component of public health policy and receive the funding it deserves.
(Word count: 420)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of linking words and phrases.
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Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “mental well-being” and “evidence-based interventions.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with explanations and examples, showing depth of thought and analysis.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Mental health is a big problem in today’s world, and people have different opinions about whether governments should spend money on mental health services. Some think it’s important, while others believe it’s not the best use of money. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support government spending on mental health services say it’s necessary because many people suffer from mental health problems. These problems can affect a person’s life, their family, and even society. If the government provides money for mental health services, it can help these people and make society healthier. Also, good mental health can help people work better and maybe save money on healthcare in the future.
On the other hand, some people think spending a lot of money on mental health services is not the best idea. They say there are other important things like schools, hospitals, and roads that need money too. These things might show clearer results more quickly. Some people also don’t think mental health treatments work very well and say it’s hard to see if they really help.
In my opinion, I think governments should invest in mental health services. Mental health problems are becoming more common, especially with things like social media and economic problems affecting people. If we don’t take care of mental health, it can lead to other health problems too. While other areas are also important, I believe mental health should be treated as equally important.
To address worries about whether mental health treatments work, governments could spend money on research to find the best ways to help people. They could also check carefully to see if the treatments are working well.
In conclusion, even though there are different opinions, I think the good things about government investment in mental health services are more important than the problems. By focusing on mental health, governments can help their citizens be healthier and happier, which is good for everyone.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, though the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented and supported, though with less depth and specificity than in the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Mental well-being (noun): The state of mental health and emotional balance.
Pronunciation: /ˈmen.təl wel-ˈbiː.ɪŋ/ -
Prevalence (noun): The fact of being common or widespread.
Pronunciation: /ˈprev.ə.ləns/ -
Allocate (verb): To give or assign something for a particular purpose.
Pronunciation: /ˈæl.ə.keɪt/ -
Intervention (noun): Action taken to improve a situation, especially a medical disorder.
Pronunciation: /ˌɪn.təˈven.ʃən/ -
Exacerbate (verb): To make a problem or bad situation worse.
Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzæs.ər.beɪt/ -
Holistic (adjective): Considering the whole of something and not just a part.
Pronunciation: /həʊˈlɪs.tɪk/ -
Rigorous (adjective): Extremely thorough and careful.
Pronunciation: /ˈrɪɡ.ər.əs/ -
Burden (noun): A duty or responsibility that causes worry, difficulty, or hard work.
Pronunciation: /ˈbɜː.dən/ -
Skeptic (noun): A person who questions whether something is true or worthwhile.
Pronunciation: /ˈskep.tɪk/ -
Cornerstone (noun): A basic or essential part of something.
Pronunciation: /ˈkɔː.nə.stəʊn/
Conclusion
The topic of government investment in mental health services is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions, such as:
- Should mental health education be mandatory in schools?
- Is it the government’s responsibility to ensure citizens’ mental well-being?
- How can governments balance mental health funding with other healthcare priorities?
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and fully address all parts of the question. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and feel free to share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.