Absenteeism and sick leave in Spain have reached alarming figures. Prolonged sick leave has increased by up to 26% during the last year; according to data provided by mutual insurance companies, more than 118,000 workers have been on sick leave for more than 365 days. In 2023, more than eight million people in the country were forced to be absent from their jobs for health reasons.
The economic impact of this situation is notable. Absences from work represent an expense for Social Security in benefits that exceeds 25,326 million euros, which represents an increase of 18% compared to the previous year. Furthermore, it is estimated that daily more than a million people do not go to work due to medical prescription.
On the other hand, the psychosocial conditions of workers, such as stress and emotional overload, are being identified as factors that contribute to the increase in absenteeism. The XIII Adecco Report on Healthy Business and Absenteeism Management highlights that the absenteeism rate in the first quarter of 2024 reached 7.3%, a figure that has been increasing from the 6.8% recorded in 2023, and which represents the second highest since 2000. This figure is equivalent to more than 1.2 million people not going to work during that period.
X-ray of absenteeism
By sector, industry has the highest absenteeism rate, with 7.4%, followed by the services sector (7.3%). The construction sector, on the other hand, is the least affected, with 5.5%. Regarding the autonomous communities, the Basque Country (8.4%), Asturias and the Canary Islands (both with 8.2%) are the most affected, while Catalonia (6.7%) and the Community of Madrid (6. 9%) register lower rates.
Psychosocial risks and work well-being
Absenteeism not only has economic consequences, but also highlights the psychosocial risks faced by the working class in Spain. Stress, the pressure to achieve goals and the lack of balance between work and personal life are determining factors in the health status of employed people. In this sense, emotional well-being and the creation of environments
Healthier workplaces have become a priority for companies, which seek to reduce sick leave related to these causes.
A recent study by the Adecco Group shows that there is a high percentage of professionals who do not feel satisfied with their current job (36%). Two out of three people say they would quit their job if they did not have good working conditions.
The increase in psychosocial risks not only impacts people’s health, but also business performance. Companies that fail to address these issues could face higher staff turnover, higher financial costs from prolonged absences, and an overall decline in the motivation of their teams.
Proposals to reduce absenteeism
A report prepared by labor market specialists from Vivofácil proposes measures to stop this increase in absenteeism. Organizations such as Vivofácil insist that companies must take a more active role in promoting healthy work environments, investing in workplace well-being programs that include measures such as flexible hours, teleworking, continuous training and emotional support services.
It is essential that effective policies are put in place that reduce the impact of absenteeism, while improving the well-being of workers, both from an economic and emotional perspective.
Javier Benavente Barrón, president of Vivofácil
On the other hand, diversity and inclusion policies in companies have a great impact on the organization’s performance. A 10% improvement in the perception of inclusion reduces absenteeism by almost one day per year per employee, according to the report “The diversity and inclusion revolution: Eight powerful truths”, by Juliet Bourkel. In Spain, the Vivofácil 360º Plan is positioned as one of the most innovative and complete solutions to face this challenge, providing companies with the necessary tools to improve workplace well-being and reduce the costs associated with absenteeism.
The data supports the effectiveness of the Vivofácil 360º Plan. Companies that have adopted this solution have experienced a reduction in absenteeism by 18% during the first year of implementation. At the same time, an improvement has been observed in the perception of emotional well-being at work (-13% sick leave due to stress).
Work-life balance emerges as one of the most effective tools to reduce absenteeism and improve the mental health of workers. According to studies, more than 33% of people say that they prioritize the possibility of reconciling their work and personal life when choosing or changing jobs.
The challenge of the future of work
The increase in absenteeism and psychosocial risks in the work environment are urgent challenges that require a comprehensive approach by companies, unions and authorities. Javier Benavente Barrón, president of Vivofácil, explains: “it is essential that effective policies are put in place that reduce the impact of absenteeism, while improving the well-being of workers, both from an economic and emotional perspective.”
For this reason, he insists that “companies that adopt a proactive approach in managing the well-being of their staff, implementing conciliation measures and supporting the care of their family members, will be better prepared to face this challenge and improve productivity in a timely manner.” increasingly demanding environment.”
Sources consulted:
XIII Adecco Report on Healthy Company and Absenteeism Management
XXVII Adecco Infoemployment Report: Job Supply and Demand in Spain Randstad