The pressure to keep working, even when sick, is a common issue in the workplace. According to research professor Jari Hakanen from the Institute of Occupational Health, work pressure and workload are major factors that contribute to employees persisting at work even when they are ill. This creates a vicious cycle where tasks pile up during sick leave, causing even greater pressure when the employee returns.
However, there are other factors that can influence employees’ decision to work while sick. Organizational psychologist Pekka Järvinen notes that working while sick can be driven by perfectionism, fears about career progression, financial concerns, and the nature of the illness. For example, individuals with work burnout may feel pressured to continue working despite being unwell due to their fear of losing their job or failing to meet performance expectations.
Hakanen also warns that strict absence control policies, such as making the first day of sick leave unpaid, can increase the likelihood of employees persisting at work while sick. This not only puts additional stress on employees but also makes it more difficult for them to take care of their health and well-being.
To create a supportive work environment that encourages self-care and prioritizes employees’ health over work demands, employers should consider implementing flexible leave policies that allow for paid sick days or reduced hours during times of illness. Additionally, employers can provide resources such as mental health support and stress management training to help employees manage their workload and prioritize their well-being.
In conclusion, working while sick can have detrimental effects on employees’ health and well-being. Employers must create a supportive work environment that encourages self-care and prioritizes employees’ health over work demands. By doing so, they can help prevent future absences caused by burnout or other long-term health issues caused by working through illnesses.
Employers should also reconsider their absence control policies and strive for flexibility in leave options such as paid sick days or reduced hours during times of illness. This will help create a culture where taking care of one’s own health is valued over meeting performance expectations or keeping up with demanding deadlines.
By doing so, employers can create a more sustainable workplace culture where productivity is maintained without sacrificing employee well-being.
