The frequency of work stoppages has increased considerably in France, in particular because of mental health problems.
- In 2019, we observed that just under a third of employees (30%) stopped at least once.
- In 2022, the rate now stands at 44%, i.e. nearly one in two employees.
According a new study by Axa Francethe frequency of work stoppages increased considerably in our country in 2022.
Age groups
In 2019, the pre-Covid reference year, we observed that just under a third of employees (30%) stopped at least once. “In 2022, the rate now stands at 44%, i.e. nearly one in two employees! A record!”, can we read in the report.
All sectors of activity are affected by the increase in absenteeism, with the food trade remaining the most affected.
The increase in absenteeism has also undermined all age groups, but the youngest have been even more affected by the phenomenon. “In fact, we observe in our portfolio an increase of more than 50% in the absenteeism rate for those under 30 between 2019 and 2022”, detail the authors of the research.
And if the average duration of stoppages is down overall, the study still reports an increase in the duration of the longest stoppages (+ 11.2% for those of more than 90 days).
The causes of absenteeism
Among the various causes that could explain these figures, “we can recall that 2022 was marked by epidemic waves due in particular to Omicron”, analyze the experts.
“But we also observe that psychological disorders are becoming the main cause of long-term sick leave. This phenomenon is all the more worrying as it also affects more and more young employees”, they judge.
The financial burden of absenteeism
“Once again this year, the absenteeism rate has reached a record level, proof that the upward trend of recent years is well established, even if the pace is expected to slow in 2023. Consequently, the financial burden of absenteeism is increasingly most important”, concludes Diane Milleron-Deperrois, dGeneral Manager AXA Santé & Collectives.
