Mental health problems are becoming increasingly common among young people. What do you think are the main causes and what solutions can you suggest?
Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.
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Step 1
IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic
State your clear position in the introduction by explicitly outlining the 2-3 main causes you will discuss and the 2-3 most impactful solutions you will propose. While acknowledging that other factors exist, ensure your essay consistently prioritises and defends your chosen primary causes and solutions, using phrases like 'While X contributes, it is Y that serves as the predominant factor.'
For causes, consider specific examples like the pervasive influence of social media platforms (e.g., studies from the Pew Research Center linking screen time to anxiety) or intense academic and economic pressures (e.g., the high-stakes educational systems in East Asian countries). For solutions, you could suggest integrated mental health literacy programs in schools (e.g., models implemented in Australia) or government-subsidised community mental health services.
The most common mistake students make on this question is providing a superficial list of many causes and solutions without developing any in depth. To avoid this, select only 2-3 main causes and 2-3 main solutions, dedicating a full body paragraph to each, providing detailed explanations, specific examples, and logical connections to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding.
Employ a clear linking strategy by using topic sentences that signpost the paragraph's focus and connect back to your overall argument. For instance, transition from causes to solutions with phrases like 'Having explored the primary drivers of this trend, it is imperative to consider viable remedies,' or 'To mitigate these escalating issues, one crucial step involves...'.
For a band 8-9 answer, examiners look for a nuanced understanding of the *interconnectedness* of causes (e.g., how digital pressures exacerbate academic stress) and solutions that are not only practical but also address the *root causes* identified. The essay must demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary related to mental health and societal trends, complex sentence structures, and a consistently clear, well-supported argument throughout.
Step 2
Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)
1Introduction
Hook the examiner and establish your position immediately.
- Rephrase the question using powerful synonyms — avoid copying words
- State your opinion clearly in the final sentence — leave no doubt
- Keep it tight: 2-3 sentences max. Every word must earn its place.
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
It is often argued that...There is a growing debate about whether...In my view, ... because ...2Body Paragraph 1 — Your Strongest Argument
Make your most compelling case with undeniable evidence.
- Start with a powerful topic sentence — state your argument boldly
- Support with concrete evidence: statistics, real-world cases, or expert research
- Explain exactly HOW your evidence proves your point — connect the dots for the examiner
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
The primary reason I hold this view is that...This is clearly illustrated by...For instance, in many countries...3Body Paragraph 2 — Supporting Argument
Strengthen your position with a complementary perspective.
- Choose a different angle — if paragraph 1 was economic, try social, environmental, or ethical
- Use fresh evidence — avoid repeating the same examples or reasoning
- Explicitly link back to your thesis — show how this strengthens your overall position
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
Furthermore, it is worth considering that...Another compelling argument is that...This is further supported by the fact that...4Conclusion
Leave a lasting impression with a confident, memorable ending.
- Never introduce new ideas — this is your final summary
- Restate your position using stronger vocabulary than the introduction
- Keep it powerful: 2 sentences max. End with authority.
Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph
In conclusion, I firmly believe that...To sum up, the evidence clearly suggests that...Step 3
High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations
Step 4
Academic Phrases for This Essay Type
It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignoreAddition
MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is moreContrast
HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConverselyCause / Effect
ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads toExample
For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch asConcession
AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedlyStep 5
Grammar Patterns for Band 7+
Complex sentence with concession
Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.
Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.
Conditional (Type 2)
If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.
Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.
Passive for academic tone
It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.
Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.
Relative clause
Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.
Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.
Noun phrase for density
The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.
Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.
Step 6
Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)
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Download Official IELTS Answer Sheet (PDF)More IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics in This Category
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Many countries are importing food from other nations rather than producing it locally. What are the reasons and consequences of this trend?
The best way to improve health is through exercise rather than medication. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
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