Spain's Sick Leave Crisis: Long-Term Absences and Mental Health Take a Toll

Spain's Sick Leave Surge: A National Crisis? Spain is facing a concerning trend: it holds the unenviable title of having the highest sick leave rates in Europe. This isn't just a matter of statistics; it's impacting the nation's economy and workforce. A recent report by Cuatro reveals a staggering 52% increase in workdays lost due to illness since 2018. Cristina Montalvo, an expert in the field, points to two key issues: long-term absences and the growing number of employees repeatedly taking sick leave. "The workdays lost due to this reason have increased by 52%. This means that each day of the year, a million people haven't gone to work," Montalvo explains. She further notes that this isn't just about a few individuals; the impact is substantial. Long-term absences, lasting over a year, have doubled since 2018. Additionally, the number of repeat offenders, those taking multiple sick leaves within a year, is also on the rise, accounting for 65% of lost workdays. The study also highlights the types of illnesses contributing most to this increase. Montalvo states, "The most difficult pathologies to objectify are algia, pain, and those related to mental health, which have been growing, especially since the pandemic." This underscores the need for a multifaceted approach, addressing not only physical ailments but also the mental health challenges faced by Spain's workforce. The situation calls for comprehensive solutions to ensure the well-being of employees and the stability of the Spanish economy.