Americans are causing a headache for employers on August 24th, as they take more sick leave on this day than any other time of year, even surpassing the day after Super Bowl Sunday. While winter is typically associated with widespread illness, data from Flamingo Leave Tracker has shown that sickness can strike throughout the year. The most common reason for sick leave among U.S. workers is stomach bugs, accounting for 54% of cases. COVID-19 follows closely behind at 25%, with anxiety or stress at 9% and musculoskeletal injuries or broken bones at 6%.
The fact that August 24th has been dubbed the “sickest day of the year” is surprising, as there are no major holidays during that week. David Hehenberger, founder of Flamingo Leave Tracker, speculates that the impact of the pandemic is still being felt in workplaces, even though mandates and restrictions have eased. He emphasizes that businesses should still expect COVID-19-related absences in the coming months, as cases continue to rise in the U.S.
But it’s not just COVID-19 that contributes to this phenomenon. The global pandemic, which forced millions to stay at home, has led to an increase in workers taking mental health days when needed. Paaras Parker, chief human resources officer at payroll software company Paycor, has observed a notable rise in employees staying home due to anxiety or stress-related conditions. This accounts for nearly 9% of sick leave, according to the Flamingo survey. Workers may not necessarily have a physical illness, but they recognize the need for a day off to prioritize their mental well-being.
The introduction of remote work has also affected the culture around sick leave. A survey by WFH Research found that workers who are feeling unwell but unable to work remotely are nearly twice as likely to come to the office with symptoms compared to their hybrid counterparts. The ability to work from home provides a sense of comfort, knowing that they won’t pass any illnesses to their colleagues. Jeff Levin-Scherz, population health leader at insurance company WTW, suggests that providing perks like access to healthy food and exercise facilities can boost employee morale and attendance.
Employers can use this information to plan strategies for sick leave. Statista reports that 26% of Americans between the ages of 18 and 65 did not take a single day of sick leave in 2022, which might initially be seen as a sign of productivity and dedication. However, Hehenberger warns that this could indicate deeper issues, such as fear, pressure, or inadequate policies in the workplace. He believes that the rise of mental health days is a positive trend that could potentially reduce traditional sick leave. By prioritizing employee well-being and offering support, businesses can create a healthier work environment.
Overall, employers and HR leaders should be aware of peak times for illnesses and sick leave to implement proactive management strategies. This insight can help ensure operational continuity and address workplace health, morale, and potential burnout.
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