National Sickie Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Sickie Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Sickie Day is observed on February 6th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Sickie Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you should know about National Sickie Day.

📅 What day is National Sickie Day 2024?

In 2024, National Sickie Day is on Monday, February 6th. It is the 1st Monday in February; in 2024, it is Tuesday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the fun details and facts about February 6, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Based on research conducted by ELAS, a British legal company in 2011, it was found that the first Monday of February, referred to as National Sickie Day in the UK, is the day when the highest number of workers call in sick. Experts attribute this to a combination of factors such as gloomy weather, post-holiday blues, and seasonal illnesses. It is not surprising that feelings of sadness and anxiety peak during the winter months. Despite the term “sickie” implying deception, labor and mental health advocates argue that the stigma surrounding mental health problems leads many individuals to use other, more socially acceptable illnesses as excuses to take time off work.

📜 National Sickie Day History

In 2020, around 600,000 workers in the UK called in sick, resulting in a cost of nearly £45 million to the economy. Experts argue that taking a sick day may be more beneficial than going to work while ill, as it can help prevent the spread of illness and maintain productivity. A survey conducted in 2015 revealed that employees with mental health issues were more likely to lie about their condition to their employers compared to those with physical ailments. It is crucial for employers to prioritize mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it, according to doctors and mental health specialists. Interestingly, some companies do not prioritize physical illnesses, with only 42% of top managers considering the flu as a valid reason to stay home. While Monday is commonly regarded as the most popular day for calling in sick, other Mondays throughout the year have shown higher absence rates than the first Monday of February, which challenges the notion of National Sickie Day. Nonetheless, this unofficial “holiday” remains a popular topic of discussion and an excuse for individuals to take a day off, knowing that others are doing the same.

✅ National Sickie Day Facts

🔖 “I’m having period pains”
If you possess a uterus, this explanation is entirely rational!

🔖 “I got arrested”
If you happen to land in jail the night before taking a day off due to illness, it might be best not to inform your boss about it.

🔖 “I stayed out partying and didn’t get enough sleep”
It may be surprising, but there are individuals who strongly believe in the value of honesty, particularly when it comes to taking sick days.

👍 Why Is National Sickie Day Important

This unofficial “holiday” advises employees to take time off when necessary.

Too many employees lie about their absences because they are terrified of the stigma associated with confessing to mental-health difficulties. Destigmatizing mental health will make it easier for workers to access resources and take time off when they need it, resulting in happier workplaces and higher productivity.

Many activists argue that the reason workers “pull a sickie” is often related to their employer’s retaliation. Fair, acceptable time-off rules can prevent worker dishonesty while also improving worker health and employer-employee relations.

🙂 How To Observe National Sickie Day

⚡ Take the day off from everything
Even though you’re taking time off work and staying at home, simply scrolling through social media all day won’t give your brain the rest it needs. It’s important to consciously disconnect and refrain from using Facebook, checking emails, and visiting news websites for a whole day.

⚡ Take the day off
It is clear and obvious that taking a day off from work and spending it with loved ones, pets, or engaging in activities we usually neglect is important. We should encourage support for mental health and not feel guilty about taking a day off to prioritize our mental well-being. Additionally, we can contribute to organizations that aim to decrease the stigma surrounding mental health and improve the availability of mental health resources.

⚡ Promote mental-health support
Giving yourself permission to take a mental-health day is perfectly acceptable. Additionally, you can support an organization that works towards reducing the negative perception surrounding mental health and ensuring better availability of resources for those in need.

📅 When is National Sickie Day?

View all 🔗 February holidays, including 🔗 Fun and other 🔗 Career holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about National Sickie Day. So be sure to check back soon.