Social media and mental health has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms across test centers globally. Based on analysis of past exam questions and The effects of social media on mental health in teenagers, this theme has appeared approximately 3-4 times annually since 2019, suggesting high probability of future appearances.
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that social networks have negative effects on people’s mental health, while others think they can help improve psychological wellbeing. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussion of both positive and negative impacts
- Clear personal stance
- Balanced analysis of contrasting viewpoints
- Relevant examples and evidence
- Logical structure and coherent arguments
Band 8 Model Answer
The effects of social media on relationships demonstrate both beneficial and detrimental impacts on mental health. While I acknowledge the potential advantages, I believe the negative effects generally outweigh the positive ones.
Social networks can indeed support psychological wellbeing in several ways. Firstly, these platforms enable people to maintain connections with friends and family regardless of geographical distance, reducing feelings of isolation. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, video calls and social media interactions helped many maintain their mental equilibrium despite physical separation. Additionally, online support groups provide safe spaces for individuals to share experiences and seek advice about mental health challenges, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
However, the detrimental effects of social media on mental health are more profound and widespread. The constant exposure to carefully curated representations of others’ lives often leads to harmful social comparison and decreased self-esteem. Research indicates that excessive social media use correlates with increased rates of anxiety and depression, particularly among young adults. Furthermore, the addictive nature of these platforms can disrupt sleep patterns and create dependency, exacerbating existing mental health issues.
In my opinion, while social networks offer some psychological benefits, their overall impact on mental health tends to be negative. The constant pressure to maintain an online presence, combined with the fear of missing out (FOMO) and exposure to cyberbullying, creates a psychologically taxing environment. Like impact of social media on mental health among teenagers, these effects can be particularly severe for vulnerable populations.
To conclude, although social networks provide some mental health benefits through connection and support, their negative psychological impacts are more significant. It is crucial for individuals to maintain awareness of these effects and establish healthy boundaries with social media use.
Band 6.5 Model Answer
Social networks have become very important in our daily lives, and they affect our mental health in different ways. Some people think they are bad for our psychological wellbeing, while others see benefits. I think both sides have valid points, but the negative effects are stronger.
On the positive side, social media helps people stay connected with others. When someone feels lonely, they can talk to friends online and feel better. Also, many people find support groups on social networks where they can share their problems and get advice. This can be very helpful for mental health.
However, social media also causes many problems for mental health. Many people feel sad when they see others posting about their perfect lives. They think their own life is not good enough. Also, spending too much time on social networks can make people addicted and affect their sleep, which is bad for mental health.
I believe that social networks are more harmful than helpful for mental health. Many young people especially feel pressure to look perfect online and get many likes. This can make them feel anxious and depressed. Also, cyberbullying on social media can really hurt people’s mental health.
In conclusion, while social networks can help people stay connected and find support, they often cause more mental health problems than they solve. People should be careful about how much time they spend on social media.
Key Vocabulary
- psychological wellbeing (n) /ˌsaɪkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈwelbiːɪŋ/ – mental health and happiness
- detrimental (adj) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm or damage
- exacerbate (v) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – make worse
- curated (adj) /kjʊˈreɪtɪd/ – carefully chosen and organized
- cyberbullying (n) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – using digital communications to bully
- FOMO (n) /ˈfəʊməʊ/ – fear of missing out
- equilibrium (n) /ˌiːkwɪˈlɪbriəm/ – state of balance
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Impact of digital technology on mental health
- Social media addiction among young people
- Online relationships versus real-life connections
- Digital wellbeing in modern society
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.