title: The art of mental health practice: the role of drama in developing empathy.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This paper explores concepts central to acting, and details how these concepts can be related to mental health nursing practice.
  
  
  METHODS
  The work of the acting theorists Constantin Stanislavski and Lee Strasberg is examined and recontextualized to illustrate how their work is relevant in modern mental health practice, and the development of empathy.
  
  
  RESULTS
  While these concepts are still utilized in drama, they have not been fully explored in their original context. Their use could combat stress and burnout, heighten awareness, and enhance the projection of emotions.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  These concepts can be linked with reflective practice in mental health, and a stronger emphasis on the values of this approach could allow the nurse to strengthen the level of empathy they demonstrate.
authors.affiliation: Catherine McAuley School of Nursing, Brookfield Health Science Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Republic of Ireland. john_p_goodwin@hotmail.com
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Goodwin
authors.forename: Rick
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Deady
mesh_terms: D004324:Drama; D004645:Empathy; D006801:Humans; D011568:Psychiatric Nursing / Q000592:standards*; D011570:Psychiatry / Q000592:standards*