Worried about taking a sick day? What that says about you

Many factors shape how individuals approach taking time off when they are unwell. For some, their job forms an essential part of their identity, a concept known as work centrality in occupational psychology. Research suggests that when work holds such significance, employees tend to show higher levels of dedication, engagement, and a readiness to go beyond what is required.

People who see their work as central to who they are often experience absenteeism as a loss of a part of themselves. Dr. Audrey Tang, a psychologist specializing in workplace wellbeing, explains that individuals in caring roles like medicine, nursing, and teaching often demonstrate a strong inclination to be present at work despite illness. She points out, “They often report they would rather have a physical accident to have a reason not to show up than just take the day off.” Additionally, younger workers may avoid taking sick leave due to concerns about being perceived as weak or lazy. Tang notes, “They’re more likely to be early in their profession and they don’t want to leave a negative impression.”

Determining if one is too unwell to work can be complicated. In cases of physical illness, Tang provides some clear guidelines: “If you’re vomiting and have diarrhoea or have a fever, you should stay at home for 48 hours and 24 hours respectively after the symptoms have passed. In those situations, you’re unlikely to be able to work effectively anyway.” However, decisions become less clear with milder symptoms like colds and coughs. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, it has become customary to work from home when experiencing such symptoms.

Importantly, mental health must be regarded with the same seriousness as physical health when it comes to sickness absence. Dr. Tang stresses, “If you’re sick and unable to work, you’re sick and unable to work.” Quinn-Cirillo echoes this perspective, emphasizing that the crucial issue is one’s ability to carry out work responsibilities, regardless if the difficulty stems from physical or mental health. A key indicator suggesting the need for rest includes changes in self-care, decompression from work, or sleep patterns. Quinn-Cirillo advises, “Is your ability to look after yourself changing? Are you able to decompress from work? Is your sleep OK?” If the response is no, it might be an important signal to take time off and recover

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