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This paper explores the use of painting with a group of pre-registration nursing students, as one-approach educators might use to encourage deeper thinking and reflection. During the second week of their course, the students were asked to paint a picture of what they believed nursing to be, using colour to capture their feelings associated with nursing. On completion of their paintings, the students shared their ideas and beliefs with the group. This process was repeated at the start of the second year when, on completion of a second painting, their first picture was returned; with time devoted for the students to analyse both paintings and write a reflective account. Analysis was required on three levels: (1) to examine the content of each picture; (2) to explain why they had painted particular images, and explore factors influencing changes or similarities between pictures; and (3) at a deeper level, begin exploring how their values and beliefs had shaped their paintings. Through a facilitated group, st...

Suicidality among young people is a global concern, with international studies demonstrating an increased prevalence among young gay men. Being gay is not inevitably linked to mental illness, but growing up gay in a heterosexist society can compromise mental well being. This qualitative study, using free association narrative interviewing, offers an in-depth understanding of gay men’s experience. One shared experience that emerged was “knowing and not knowing,” the story of gay children growing up in a heterosexist society. This story provides valuable insights for mental health nurses becoming more attuned to the importance of providing professional nurturing of gay children.

Drawing on psychodynamic and managerialist concepts, this paper explores possible consequences for patients and mental health nurses of the policy driven "splitting" of mental health service provision in the UK. Services and resources are now split for those with a severe and enduring mental illness and those with a common mental problem. We argue the damaging divisiveness in creating these two "political" groups makes determining how to meet the needs of individuals with common yet complex problems more difficult. The way in which an increased awareness and understanding of psychodynamic concepts can help the mental health nurse deal with such complexity is explored.