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Cantwell says stress in the workplace is not something to be ignored or downplayed. She says an AAOHN survey conducted in 2002 among more than 1,000 men and women showed 85% were interested in learning more about stress management. “Stress was also one of the top reasons that was driving personal concerns and health and safety concerns at work,” she says.

Cantwell says job stress is estimated to cost U.S. employers as much as $200 billion to $300 billion a year due to absenteeism, diminished productivity, employee turnover, accidents, and medical costs.

“The U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health reports that stress disorders are quickly becoming the most prevalent reason for disability,” she says.

She adds that chronic suppression of stress can lead to migraine headaches, backaches, ulcers, and will affect chronic diseases and our immune systems.

Among her suggestions for dealing with stress are living in the moment, making healthier choices, journaling, cognitive restructuring (a way of looking at thoughts and how you respond to situations), and mindful walking (placing all your attention on your feet and breath).

LaBarge, Metz, and Cantwell say nurses can make positive changes in the workplace. To do so, they need help from upper management.

“You need upper-management support because they’re the ones who are going to give you the budget,” Cantwell says.

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