Mental Health Benefits of Theater - Theater fosters collaboration and reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness, increasing happiness [2] - Theater provides escapism, allowing individuals to let go of pressing issues [4] - Theater allows audiences to step into the shoes of characters experiencing mental health challenges, fostering understanding and compassion [5][7] Social and Confidence Building - Theater builds community and social confidence through constant proximity to peers [10][11] - Theater builds confidence in necessary life skills, such as public speaking [12][13][14] Studies and Research - A study by the National Library of Medicine proves theater's positive correlation with mental health [3] - A 2014 study by the University of Leipzig indicates that theater can solve the problem of loneliness [9]