Marvin OnumonuThree in 10 (30%) employees have called in sick to work despite feeling healthy, according to research from MetLife UK.
The survey of 2,009 employees was released to coincide with ‘National Sickie Day’, typically when workers are more likely to phone in sick.
The research found that 40% of respondents felt burned out, with the figure rising to 47% for women and 31% for men.
Three in 10 (31%) employees cited the need for time away from the workplace as their excuse for taking a sick day.
Some employees mentioned having to take time off at the last minute due to personal circumstances.
Almost a quarter (23%) reported taking time off to attend important appointments, 17% due to emergency childcare issues, and 15% to care for relatives.
Among those who had previously called in sick, 45% took up to a week off, 31% took up to three days, and 17% took less than a day.
The report noted that stress, declining productivity, and a lack of engagement are significant challenges contributing to rising absenteeism in the UK.
Adrian Matthews, head of employee benefits at MetLife UK, said: “While taking pre-arranged and paid time off work is crucial for employee wellbeing, it’s essential to understand the underlying reasons for increased sick leave, both genuine illness and sickie days.
“These absences can stem from a variety of factors, including mental health concerns, financial stress, and childcare challenges.
“Workplace employee health and wellbeing benefits and other supportive policies can greatly support with this, in fact many are designed to provide pre-early intervention by preventing any illness occurring.”
Matthews added: “By deploying regular, effective and varied communication about all the employee benefits they offer we believe that both genuine illness and some ‘sickie days’ can be minimised.
“As an employee, if you’re ever worried or concerned about your mental health in the workplace, it’s important to explore what employee benefits your employer offers, there may be support.”
