A recent study conducted by Health Shield Friendly Society has revealed that the youngest employees in any workforce - those aged 18 to 24 - take more sick days compared to older employees. The study was conducted on a sample size of 1000 employees from different age groups working in various industries.
The research shows that Gen Z employees take an average of 3 more sick days per year than those employees from older age groups. This is a significant difference and raises questions about why Gen Z employees are taking more days for illness.
The study found that the top reasons for sick leave among Gen Z employees were mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression and it seems as though significant worries over finances could be contributing to these higher levels of sickness absence, as 44% of employees surveyed who are in this age group stated that they worry about money every day. This was higher than for any other age group.
In comparison, those aged 55-64 rarely take time off for mental health reasons. One possible reason for this trend could be the difference in work styles and work-life balance between Gen Z and older employees. Gen Z employees are known for their strong desire for a work-life balance and they prioritise their mental health and well-being. They are more likely to take time off work to address their health issues, which could be a contributing factor to the higher number of sick days they take.
Matt Liggins, Head of Wellbeing at Health Shield, commented:
“Our survey has highlighted a real concern over the health of the youngest members of the workforce. Those aged 18 to 24 should be in the best of health, yet they are taking significantly more sickness absence than much older counterparts. While it may be that younger people are more willing to be open about their struggles with mental health – saying a lot about progress made by employers to remove traditional stigma – these findings do suggest it is a serious issue that employers should be addressing urgently.”
Another possible explanation could be the difference in health conditions between Gen Z and older employees. Gen Z employees are at a stage in life where they are still developing their immunity and may be more susceptible to illnesses. They may also be more likely to take time off work to attend appointments with healthcare providers.
These findings highlight the need for employers to focus on promoting a healthy work culture that supports employees' mental and physical health.
Employers can take several steps to address this trend and promote a healthier workforce. They can start by implementing flexible work arrangements that allow employees to balance their work and personal commitments. Employers can also provide access to mental health resources, such as counselling services and stress management programmes, to help employees deal with mental health issues.
Moreover, employers can focus on promoting healthy habits among employees, such as encouraging regular exercise and providing healthy food options in the workplace. This will not only improve the overall health of employees but also help reduce the number of sick days taken by Gen Z employees. The study conducted by Health Shield Friendly Society highlights the need for employers to focus on promoting a healthy work culture that supports employees' mental and physical well-being. By taking steps to address the reasons for the higher number of sick days taken by Gen Z employees, employers can improve employee health and productivity, leading to a more engaged and committed workforce.
