Why taking a sick day depends on more than being sick

When jobs are scarce

The study also found that economic insecurity plays a role, with workers living in areas with higher unemployment tending to take less sick leave.

For instance, when the local unemployment rate rises by five percentage points, sick leave drops. While this amounts to a fraction of a day per individual, across a standard team this adds up to significant forgone recovery time.  

This pattern is consistent with a simple concern: when jobs feel harder to replace, workers may be less willing to take time off.

“They may worry that being absent could make them seem less reliable or increase the risk of losing work,” said Dr Kong.

The role of wages

The effect of wages proved more nuanced. Higher wages alone did not consistently dictate leave behaviour.

However, among workers in poorer health, higher wages were strongly associated with taking more sick leave, suggesting higher income earners possess a financial buffer.

“Higher-paid workers generally have workplace support and leave entitlements that mean they are supported to take time off when they are unwell without fear of a potential financial penalty,” said Dr Kong.

The gender gap

The most consistent finding was a distinct gender gap.  Across every analysis, men take fewer sick days than women, averaging about half a day less per year (a 23% difference), even when matching with similar health and job circumstances.

“This may reflect differences in health needs, caring responsibilities or how likely people are to seek medical care,” Dr Kong said. 

“But it also points to workplace cultures and gender expectations about ‘toughness’, reliability and working through illness.”

The case for change

Ultimately, the study highlights that sick leave rates are not simply a reflection of physical health. For employers, low sick leave rates should not be automatically viewed as a sign of success; they may also indicate a culture of fear.

“Workplace cultures should not reward people for attending when unwell or treat legitimate sick leave as a lack of commitment,” said Dr Kong.

“Reducing stigma is also particularly important in addressing the gender gap.”

Dr Kong said for policymakers, the study points to the importance of secure work, accessible paid leave and workplace practices that support people to recover when unwell.

This is particularly relevant during periods of increased cost-of-living pressure, workforce shortages and seasonal illness.

“A fair and effective sick leave system should support productivity while ensuring workers do not have to choose between protecting their health and protecting their income.”