Employees Calling in Sick Too Often: A Growing Concern

In recent years, presenteeism - where employees come to work despite being unwell - has become an increasingly common phenomenon. According to a study I conducted, 60% of participants had attended work while feeling under the weather at least once in the previous 12 months. While this may seem like a minor issue, it can have significant consequences for both employers and employees.

On one hand, presenteeism is often viewed as a positive aspect if the alternative is taking sick leave. Employees who come to work despite being unwell are able to contribute to their workload and minimize the impact on their colleagues. However, this decision is not taken lightly by employees, who often feel pressured to attend work due to various factors such as financial pressures, lack of paid sick leave, high workloads, tight deadlines, and job insecurity.

Research has shown that working while sick can have long-term consequences for an individual's mental health. In fact, a study found that employees who worked while ill were at a higher risk of developing depression two years later, even if they were not depressed initially. Furthermore, presenteeism can lead to feelings of burnout, irritability, and difficulty making decisions, which can last for several months.

Companies also bear the brunt of presenteeism, as it can increase the spread of contagious illnesses among employees. This is particularly concerning in today's environment, where many people are working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While this shift has brought about numerous benefits, including increased productivity and flexibility, it may also lead to more employees feeling pressured to work while ill.

The consequences of presenteeism do not stop there. Research has shown that employees who work while sick are at a higher risk of taking more time off due to illness 18 months later. This can have significant implications for employers, who may need to adapt their sickness absence policies and management practices to reduce the incidence of presenteeism.

Ultimately, it is essential for companies to recognize the importance of promoting employee well-being by encouraging them to take time off when necessary. By doing so, they can help prevent long-term health consequences and reduce the risk of presenteeism. This may involve implementing flexible working arrangements, providing paid sick leave, and promoting a culture that values employee health and wellness.

In conclusion, employees calling in sick too often is a growing concern that requires attention from both employers and employees. By understanding the factors that contribute to presenteeism and taking steps to address them, we can promote a healthier and more productive workforce for everyone involved.

Employees calling in sick too often