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Problem-Solutionacademic·2026

Mental health problems are increasing in many societies. What are the causes, and what solutions can be suggested?

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

Structure your main body into two distinct paragraphs: one dedicated to exploring the primary causes of increasing mental health issues, and another focused entirely on proposing viable solutions. Ensure that each solution you suggest directly correlates with and aims to mitigate a specific cause you've previously identified, demonstrating clear logical progression and coherence.

2

Consider referencing the pervasive influence of social media on adolescent mental health, citing the rise in anxiety and body image issues among younger demographics. Another strong point could be the impact of economic precarity and the gig economy on adult stress levels. For solutions, you might mention government-led initiatives like those seen in Nordic countries, which heavily invest in accessible public mental healthcare and preventative programs.

3

The most common pitfall is offering overly generic solutions that lack specificity or fail to address the systemic nature of the problem, such as simply stating "people should talk more." To avoid this, ensure your solutions are concrete, actionable, and target societal or governmental interventions, like increased funding for public mental health services or mandatory workplace wellness programs, rather than relying on individualistic advice.

4

To maintain coherence, employ transitional phrases that explicitly link a cause to its corresponding solution. For instance, after discussing a cause like "the pervasive pressure of social media," you could transition with "To mitigate this digital strain, a crucial solution lies in..." or "Addressing this societal challenge necessitates..." This ensures a clear cause-effect relationship throughout your essay.

5

Examiners awarding a Band 8-9 for this question seek a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health issues, moving beyond superficial causes like "stress" to explore deeper societal factors such as economic inequality or digital overstimulation. They look for solutions that are not only practical but also demonstrate an awareness of their potential impact and feasibility, presented with sophisticated vocabulary and complex, yet clear, sentence structures.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

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 ...
2
Body 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...
3
Body 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...
4
Conclusion

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

Mental health literacyThe knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders which aid their recognition, management, or prevention.
Societal determinants of healthThe non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, including economic stability, education, and social support.
Digital overstimulationExcessive exposure to digital content and constant connectivity, leading to cognitive overload and stress.
It is widely acknowledged thatA phrase used to introduce a generally accepted fact or belief.
A compelling argument can be madeA phrase used to introduce a strong and persuasive point.
This notion is predicated onThis idea or belief is based on or depends on.
From my perspectiveA phrase used to introduce one's personal viewpoint or opinion.
The evidence overwhelmingly suggestsA phrase used to indicate that there is a large amount of data or research supporting a particular claim.
NotwithstandingDespite; in spite of.
It could be argued thatA phrase used to introduce a possible interpretation or viewpoint, often to present a nuanced argument.

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 ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 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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IELTS Task 2: Causes & Solutions for Rising Mental Health Issues — IELTS International