Over two-thirds of workers admit to pretending to be well at work – Lime Health
The research found a rise in pleasanteeism, with 69% of employees saying they sometimes, often or always pretend to be fine when they’re not.
Over two-thirds of UK workers admitted to pretending to be well at work, according to new research from Lime Health.
The research found a rise in pleasanteeism, with 69% of employees saying they sometimes, often or always pretend to be fine when they’re not.
This was up from 51% in 2021.
Money worries, a lack of understanding from management, and negative stigma around health were the main reasons given.
Shaun Williams, founder and CEO of Lime Health, said: “It’s deeply concerning, though not surprising, to see pleasanteeism rise from just over half of the workforce to nearly 70% in only a few years.
“When so many people feel compelled to hide how they’re really feeling at work, it tells us the issue isn’t simply absence, it’s what’s happening while people are still present.
“This kind of unseen health strain is largely invisible to employers, yet it has a very real impact on performance, engagement and long-term workforce sustainability.”
61% of employees said their performance declined when working while unwell.
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