National Sickie Day
National Sickie Day is an unofficial holiday observed on the first Monday of February each year, known as the day when the highest number of employees call in sick to work. While originally thought to be the peak day for workplace absences, recent data suggests this may no longer be strictly true, though it remains a notable phenomenon with Mondays still being the most popular day to call in sick.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: First Monday of February each year
- Tagged as: Unofficial workplace holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalSickieDay
- When was it founded?: 2011
- Who founded it?: ELAS, a British legal firm (now part of Latus Group)
History of National Sickie Day
National Sickie Day was first coined in 2011 by the British legal firm ELAS after their absence management team noticed a significant spike in employee absences on the first Monday of February. The company observed that this particular day consistently showed higher rates of employees calling in sick compared to other days of the year. While originally estimated that around 350,000 UK employees would call in sick on this day, recent data suggests that the pattern has evolved, with other days throughout the year now showing higher absence rates. Nevertheless, the first Monday in February continues to show approximately 21% more absences than an average Monday.
Timeline
- 2011: ELAS coins the term “National Sickie Day” after noticing the pattern
- 2015: Estimated 350,000 employees called in sick on this day
- 2017: ELAS notes that National Sickie Day “lost its title” as other days began showing higher absence rates
- 2023: Data showed a 16% increase in absence rates on the first Monday of February compared to average Mondays
- 2024: February 5th recorded 5,456 absences, 20.57% more than a typical Monday
Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 3 | Monday |
| 2026 | February 2 | Monday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 7 | Monday |
| 2029 | February 5 | Monday |
| 2030 | February 4 | Monday |
Observed National Sickie Day
National Sickie Day is not officially celebrated but rather observed as a phenomenon in workplace attendance. It’s typically marked by higher-than-average employee absences, particularly in the UK. While some genuinely fall ill during the winter season, others might use the day to extend their weekend or take a mental health break. The day has become a talking point for HR departments and managers who prepare for potentially higher absence rates on this particular Monday.
Fun Facts About National Sickie Day
- The most common excuse for calling in sick is minor illness like a cold, accounting for nearly 30% of all sick days.
- Despite its name, the first Monday in February is actually only the 21st most popular day to call in sick in the UK according to recent data.
- In the US, August 24th is the most popular day to call in sick, followed by February 13th.
- In 2022, UK workers took an average of 7.8 sick days per year, a 10-year high.
- Workplace absences cost the UK economy an estimated £66.3 billion annually in lost productivity.
Quiz
- When is National Sickie Day observed?
- Who first coined the term “National Sickie Day”?
- What percentage more absences does the first Monday in February typically have compared to an average Monday?
- What is the most common reason given for calling in sick?
(Answers: 1. First Monday of February, 2. ELAS (British legal firm), 3. Approximately 21%, 4. Minor illness like a cold)
FAQs
Is National Sickie Day a real holiday?
No, it’s not an official holiday but rather an observed phenomenon where statistically more people call in sick on the first Monday of February.
Why do more people call in sick on this day?
Several factors contribute, including post-holiday blues, winter illnesses, and the psychological impact of returning to work after the festive season. Some people may also be reassessing their career choices after the New Year.
Are people actually sick on National Sickie Day?
While many people are genuinely ill, studies suggest that a significant percentage of absences on this day may not be due to physical illness but rather mental fatigue or simply not wanting to go to work.
How should employers handle National Sickie Day?
Employers can prepare by ensuring adequate staffing, implementing supportive absence management policies, and creating a positive work environment that encourages employee wellbeing throughout the year.
Importance of National Sickie Day
Beyond the lighthearted name, National Sickie Day highlights important workplace issues including employee wellbeing, work-life balance, and mental health awareness. The day serves as a reminder for employers to evaluate their absence management policies and workplace culture. It also opens discussions about the legitimacy of mental health days and the importance of self-care. Rather than simply focusing on preventing absences, forward-thinking organizations use this phenomenon to address underlying issues that may contribute to employee dissatisfaction and burnout.
Related
- Blue Monday (third Monday of January)
- Time to Talk Day (early February)
- Mental Health Awareness Month
- Work-Life Balance Week
- Employee Appreciation Day
