Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Preventing depression among nurses is a critical issue from the perspective of occupational welfare, but associations between depressive symptoms in nurses and stress-coping strategies remain unclear. METHODS: In the present study, an epidemiological study was conducted based on a cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Data obtained from 2,534 female nurses working at three general hospitals in Tokyo, Japan, were analyzed. Participants completed a questionnaire comprising 42 items, including depressive symptoms and stress-coping strategies, in addition to sociodemographic information and perceived mental stress. RESULTS: Our study showed that the emotional distraction strategy "Engaging in hobbies or relaxing" was negatively associated with both depressed mood and loss of interest. In addition, the problem-solving strategy "Making an effort to think optimistically" was negatively associated with loss of interest. Conversely, use of avoidant strategies was positively associated with both depressive symptoms. DISCUSSION: Our findings may indicate the importance of focusing on types of coping styles when developing strategies to prevent depressive symptoms in nurses.