Burnout Replaces the Common Cold: Mental Health Now Tops Germany’s Sick Leave Charts
Published on 07/24/2026 at 02:53 | Redaktion boerse-global.de
Germany’s overall sick leave rate dipped slightly to 5.3 percent in the first half of 2026, according to a new DAK analysis. But behind that marginal decline lies a seismic shift in what is actually making employees call in sick.
Respiratory infections dropped 21 percent compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, mental health diagnoses jumped 9 percent. For the first time, psychological conditions have become the single most common reason for workplace absence across the country.
The Always-On Culture Bites Back
More than 60 percent of workers report that their psychological strain has increased, according to surveys by the Austrian Trade Union Federation (ÖGB) and PwC. The persistent shortage of skilled labour is a key driver. Germany’s Competence Centre for Skilled Labour (KOFA) counted roughly 370,000 qualified workers missing nationwide last year.
The result is relentless work intensification. TÜV Rheinland warns that this not only raises accident risks but poses a serious threat to employees’ mental health.
A central culprit is the blurring line between professional and private life. A study by the IU International University found that half of respondents feel pressured to reply to messages immediately. One in three believes they must remain reachable after clocking out. Women are disproportionately affected.
Vacation offers no escape. A Bitkom survey from spring 2026 shows 66 percent of employees stay connected while on holiday. More than half say colleagues pressure them to remain available, while nearly half cite expectations from their managers.
When psychological strain and work intensification increase, so do the risks of overlooked hazards and incomplete safety documentation. A free Risk Assessment Toolkit provides 41 ready-to-use templates and checklists to help you manage workplace risks systematically — covering fire safety, manual handling, lone working, and more. Download the free Risk Assessment Toolkit
Five Levers for HR
Experts argue that psychological strain must become a standard part of workplace risk assessments. Five core measures are emerging as priorities:
- Set clear expectations: Define exactly when employees are expected to be reachable
- Lead by example: Managers must model a healthy work culture
- Systematic risk assessment: Capture mental health factors alongside physical ones
- Surface team norms: Reflect on and adjust informal rules around availability
- Individualise support: Account for different life stages and personal circumstances
A researcher at the Ernst-Abbe University of Applied Sciences in Jena points out that partnerships between companies and universities can be valuable in building preventive structures.
New Tools for an Old Problem
Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf is launching “StudyWell,” an e-coaching programme starting in the winter semester 2026/27. It uses gamification to teach adaptability and self-efficacy.
Artificial intelligence sparks mixed reactions. An Expleo survey shows many executives find work significantly harder without AI. But organisations like Atlassian caution that while AI accelerates tasks, it rarely improves overall workload in a systemic way.
As mental health becomes the leading cause of workplace absence, having a comprehensive health and safety framework is more important than ever. A free Health & Safety Toolkit offers ready-to-use risk assessments, checklists, and toolbox talks aligned with UK regulations — helping you protect both physical and psychological wellbeing at work. Download the free Health & Safety Toolkit
Regulatory momentum is building internationally. France plans a social media ban for under-15s starting September 2026. In Florence, Italy’s first specialist centre for digital deceleration will open after the summer.
The message is unmistakable: this is no longer just a workplace issue. It is becoming a defining societal question.
Disclaimer regarding our articles: No investment advice, no buy or sell recommendation. Information on prices, companies, and markets is provided without guarantee; changes are possible at any time. Stock market transactions can lead to substantial losses. Our articles are created and reviewed in whole or in part automatically with the support of AI.
