CPE Essay Sample for 2017 Cambridge Proficiency exam

Submitted by Agnieszka Czyżowicz 

270 words

Task

Read the two texts below.
Write an essay summarising and evaluating the key points from both texts. Use your own words throughout as far as possible and include your own ideas in your answers. Write the essay. (around 240 - 280 words)

1,The Financial Costs of Stress

Research carried out by the Health and Safety Council estimates that stress and mental illness continues to be neglected by many businesses, both small and large. And the economic impact of this is huge, costing employers around £26bn a year. Stress at work can lead to a lack of concentration, fatigue and low motivation, all of which will cost the company in terms of low productivity, customer satisfaction and the very reputation of the company itself. Employers are being urged to become more "emotionally intelligent" and to improve the way they deal with stress and mental illness.

2.Speak up about Stress
Many people find it difficult to talk about their feelings, particularly if we're feeling weak or vulnerable. However, when suffering from stress it’s vital you seek help. It's important to feel you can talk honestly with a close friend, a loved one, a work colleague or doctor about what’s going on. Stress is easily diagnosed and there is plenty you can do to successfully treat and manage stress. One of the most effective of these is to share your feelings with those you trust. Remember that accepting help and support is not a sign of weakness. Close relationships are vital to helping you get through this tough time.

Essay on Stress

The two texts address the issue of stress. The first one focuses on the impact it has on the employees´ health and productivity at work, while the second one discusses the importance of treating, managing and preventing it.

Stress causes financial problems to companies. According to the information in the first text, mental problems and stress lead to an annual massive money loss, which goes to up to 26 million dollars. Unsurprisingly, workers who are overwhelmed by personal problems are no eager beavers. Moreover, companies are reported to push their employees to “cope with stress” through a series of compulsory workshops, which do nothing but aggravating the problem.

The second text suggests specific ways to deal with stress. It claims, for example, that having a conversation with trusted people is essential for the affected to recover. Having somebody to talk with and admitting that the problem exists, is a good first step towards recovery. Another recommended action it to talk out loud to oneself, as it is allegedly helpful to gather one’s thoughts or think more clearly. Additionally, people who look for professional help are likely to improve faster. The biggest mistake we can make is it to avoid the problem.

As a conclusion, stress is a serious issue that affects negatively both workers and companies. The good news is that stress is easily treatable, being the best way simply to talk about it, with friends or with a medical expert. Hopefully, the companies from the future will understand this problem and be more willing to hire psychologists and doctors to help prevent stress problems in the work place.