Brit employees clock in after they’re not effectively for a median of six days over summer season
Nearly half (49%) of workers continued the grind for an average of six days despite not feeling well, highlighting the extent of so-called summer presenteeism.
Brits are going to work even though they’re ill(Image: Getty)
NEARLY half of Brits have carried on working while feeling sick this summer, powering through illness for an average of more than a whole working week.
A poll of 2,000 people found nearly half (49%) of workers continued the grind for an average of six days despite not feeling well, highlighting the extent of so-called summer presenteeism.
Summer health problems were widespread, with nearly half (45%) experiencing trouble sleeping, a third (32%) struggling with stress or anxiety and 31% suffering extreme tiredness or fatigue. A quarter (25%) also experienced low mood.
The research, commissioned by Vista Health, a leading UK private diagnostics provider, highlights the importance of prioritising health and taking proactive steps to address concerns early.
Dr Reem Hasan, Chief Medical Officer at Vista Health and NHS GP, said: “One thing remains true throughout the seasons; your health should never be put on hold. Symptoms do not wait until life becomes less busy.
“Listening to your body, seeking advice when something does not feel right and making prevention part of everyday life are some of the most important investments you can make in your future health.”
Almost three in 10 (28%) carried on working because they had too much work to do, while 19% did not want to lose pay. Others thought they could power through illness (18%), had nobody available to cover them (17%) or feared work would pile up (16%).
But working while ill had consequences, with 28% becoming less productive, a quarter (25%) struggling to concentrate and almost one in four (24%) feeling worse by the end of the day.
Working while ill does have consquences(Image: Getty)
Three in 10 Brits (29%) also admitted putting off a health appointment, test or check during the summer – for an average of six weeks. Work was the leading obstacle, with 35% saying they had been too busy with their job.
A quarter (25%) of those delaying care became more worried or anxious, 21% suffered disrupted sleep and 20% said their symptoms lasted longer.
And the pressures of summer could follow people into the next season, with half of Brits (50%) worried they will head into autumn already feeling tired or run down.
More than a quarter (27%) fear having low energy, while 24% are worried about struggling to sleep or feeling burnt out.
Dr Hasan said: “Summer is often associated with rest and relaxation, but for many people it brings a very different reality. School holidays, juggling childcare, caring responsibilities, travel, financial pressures and covering for colleagues can all make it harder to prioritise our own health and wellbeing.”
Her five steps for the new season are knowing what is normal for your body, not putting off appointments or screening, protecting mental as well as physical wellbeing, making small and steady positive changes and looking out for others.
Nearly two in five Brits (38%) also said they had stopped themselves, or considered stopping themselves, from calling in sick on a hot or sunny day because they feared others would think they were skiving.
