Factors related to subjective well-being among nurses working in hospitals in Japan

Objective: Given nurses' workload and demanding professional life, this study explored subjective well-being and associated factors among nurses employed in hospitals in Japan. Methods: An anonymous self-administered questionnaire survey was given to 1,359 nurses working in two university hospitals in Japan. Subjective well-being (mental health and fatigue) was assessed using the Japanese version of the Subjective Health Perception Scale. The relationships between work environment, lifestyle, and occupational stress were examined using multiple regression analysis. Results: Data from 589 female nurses (response rate: 43%) were analyzed. The proportion of participants in the low mental fatigue group was 49.4%. Factors associated with mental fatigue included items related to occupational stress, such as interpersonal stress at work, irritability, anxiety, depression, physical complaints, support from family and friends, and satisfaction with work and life (p < .05). Conclusions: Approximately half of the nurses working at university hospitals had high levels of mental fatigue. This study revealed associations between stress reactions and greater support from family and friends. Additionally, satisfaction with work and life is related to occupational stress, highlighting the importance of considering whether nurses perceive stress reactions and assessing the need for support based on support from family and friends.